What Is the Social Security Disability Reevaluation Process?
Appeals Process
When an individual files a claim for Social Security Disability, the state’s agency will investigate the claim, which includes gathering medical evidence and possibly a medical evaluation, to determine whether or not the individual filing the claim has become legitimately disabled.
The final decision on whether Social Security Disability benefits will be disbursed is left to a two-person panel, which consists of a qualified medical or psychological examiner and a qualified disability examiner. If the claim is denied, the individual will be sent an official letter acknowledging the denial. An individual who feels he has been unfairly denied Social Security Disability benefits can appeal this decision. In fact, an individual can appeal the decision multiple times.
First Appeal
After an initial appeal is filed, the Social Security Administration will basically start the evaluation process over. The only difference is that the second panel will consist of two different individuals who are unrelated and uninvolved with the initial claim.
They evaluate the same information and, if necessary, will order the same medical evaluations and consultations that the first panelists may have ordered. These additional evaluations are only ordered if the panelists determine that there was not enough medical information to make an informed decision without further investigation.
Second Appeals Process
Even if a first appeal is denied, an individual can still have a Social Security Disability claim re-evaluated. The Social Security Administration will hold an administrative hearing with the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR).
This appeals process does not involve a two-person panel, but rather an administrative judge who oversees the hearing and considers any additional evidence that the claimant and her medical practitioners may submit. The judge may also want to speak directly to the claimant’s medical professionals and others who may have witnessed the extent of claimant’s disabilities.
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