What a Social Security Benefits Attorney Does After Denial
Navigating a Social Security benefits denial can feel overwhelming, especially if you rely on those benefits for financial stability. At Gordon & Pont PC, serving Detroit, MI, we understand how stressful this situation can be—and how a skilled Social Security Benefits Attorney can be the difference between frustration and future security. If you’ve recently received a denial letter, read on: we’ll explain what these decisions mean, how to react, and why turning to a Social Security Benefits Attorney is a smart next step for Detroit residents looking for answers and solutions.
What Happens After a Social Security Benefits Denial?
Receiving a Social Security benefits denial is discouraging, but it’s far from the end of your journey. Many individuals are denied in their initial application. As Social Security Benefits Attorneys, we regularly help clients understand the steps following a denial. The Social Security Administration (SSA) gives denied applicants several options, including requesting reconsideration, appealing the decision, and preparing for a hearing before an administrative law judge.
When you work with a Social Security Benefits Attorney, you gain a knowledgeable partner for these stages. We’ll analyze your denial letter and explain why your benefits were not approved, focusing on common reasons such as inadequate medical evidence, incomplete work history, or clerical errors on forms. Then, we’ll advise on the best course of action based on your specific situation.
Common Reasons for Initial Denials—And How Attorneys Can Help
Applications are denied for a variety of reasons, most often linked to documentation issues or misunderstandings of SSA requirements. Based on our experience operating in the Detroit area, some typical causes include:
- Insufficient Medical Evidence: If your application doesn’t thoroughly document your disability, it may not meet SSA standards. A Social Security Benefits Attorney helps you gather and present more detailed records, including updated medical evaluations and expert statements.
- Incomplete Work History: Failing to fully describe your employment background or how your disability affects your ability to work can result in denial. We help ensure that your work history narrative matches the requirements SSA is looking for.
- Form Errors or Omissions: Even minor mistakes can trigger a denial. We systematically review all paperwork to spot and correct any inconsistencies. For a deeper understanding of qualifying conditions and how these impact your application, visit our guide on qualifying for disability benefits.
Steps to Take After Receiving a Denial Notice
If you’ve received that dreaded denial letter, it’s crucial to respond quickly. Here’s how a Social Security Benefits Attorney can walk you through your options:
- Request Reconsideration: The first step is to ask SSA to review your application again. We help submit updated evidence and clarify discrepancies in your records.
- Prepare for an Administrative Hearing: If reconsideration fails, you can appeal to an administrative law judge. Your Social Security Benefits Attorney is essential for preparing a compelling case—organizing medical records, statements from your treating physicians, and reports detailing your daily function.
- Appeal Further if Necessary: If the hearing isn’t favorable, you can appeal to the SSA Appeals Council and, if needed, to federal court. To read about the formal appeal process in detail, visit our dedicated page on
Social Security disability appeals.
How We Organize Evidence and Prepare Your Case
A major part of our role as your Social Security Benefits Attorney is managing documentation and evidence. This includes:
- Collecting Comprehensive Medical Records: We work with your healthcare providers to get updated, detailed medical documentation. We request disability-specific test results, clinical notes, and specialist opinions.
- Daily Function Reports: We help you articulate, in writing, how your disability affects daily living. These reports are persuasive for SSA reviewers.
- Expert Testimony: If your case requires it, we secure expert statements from professionals who can explain your diagnosis and limitations to judges. These steps are vital to present a clear, accurate picture to SSA, showing not only your limitations but also supporting why you qualify under their guidelines.
Avoiding Mistakes: Tips for Organizing Your Records
We encourage clients to develop strong record-keeping habits even before an initial denial occurs. As your Social Security Benefits Attorney, we advise:
- Keeping a folder with all SSA correspondence: Store every letter, notice, or form you receive from SSA.
- Maintaining a medical diary: Regularly note any visits to doctors, treatments, medications, and changes in symptoms.
- Recording work attempts or vocational rehabilitation: If you tried to return to work or engaged in rehab, document what happened and why it was unsuccessful. Small details can make a significant difference in your appeal—and we’re here to help organize and compile every piece of supporting evidence needed.
Why Legal Representation Matters in Detroit
Our firm, Gordon & Pont PC, provides services in Detroit, MI, specializing in Social Security denials and appeals. The SSA’s process is complicated, and the chances of an approval can dramatically increase when you have an experienced Social Security Benefits Attorney by your side. We understand the local healthcare systems, Detroit’s employment climate, and the common hurdles locals face during disability claims. If you’re denied, don’t go it alone—the right advocate truly matters.
Take the Next Step: Schedule Your Free Case Evaluation
At Gordon & Pont PC, we’re passionate about helping Detroit residents overcome Social Security Benefit denials. Our Social Security Benefits Attorneys bring clarity, compassion, and results-driven advocacy to every client. If your disability claim was recently denied, we invite you to schedule a free case evaluation and let us assess your options together. Let’s turn denial into approval. Contact us today or call 248-395-4100 and take the next step toward securing your benefits.
