Frequently Asked Questions

 

26.       What is "reconsideration"?

When a claim for Social Security disability benefits is denied at the initial level, the claimant may then request "reconsideration" of that decision. The case is then sent to a different disability examiner for a new decision. Unfortunately, about 80% of the time the reconsideration decision is the same as the initial decision - a denial.   Michigan did away with this step.  Now, your next avenue of appeal in Michigan following an application denial is to Request a Hearing.

 

27.       Who makes the reconsideration determination?

A disability examiner at the Disability Determination Section makes the reconsideration determination. Most of the time, the claimant does not see the disability examiner or even know his or her name.

 

28.       What are my chances of winning at reconsideration?

Statistically, about 20% of the time a claimant wins at reconsideration.

 

29.       Do I have to go through reconsideration?

Not in Michigan.  In other jurisdictions, if you want to appeal a denial of Social Security disability benefits, you have to go through reconsideration.

 

30.       How long does it take to get a hearing on a Social Security Disability claim?

           

There is much variation around the country. In a few areas of the country the wait is only three months.  In a few areas of the country the wait is around 2 years.

           

 

           

31.       What is the Social Security hearing like?

The hearings are fairly informal.  The only people likely to be there are the Judge, a secretary operating a tape recorder, the claimant, the claimant's Attorney, and anyone else the claimant has brought with him or her.  In some cases, the Administrative Law Judge has a medical doctor or vocational expert present to testify at the hearing.

 

<-- Prev

Next -->

Call Social Security Professionals now to discuss your claim for free
You need no money to hire Attorney Donald H. Peters
(248) 549-3485
FREE CONSULTATION