The SSDI Claims Process
– applying for SSDI and/or SSI benefits can be a slow and long process but Katrine M. Erie through ERIE LAW OFFICES, P.C. guides you through the complicated procedure.
Initial Application
– application for disability can be filed online or by calling the SSA if you are 18 years or older, are not currently receiving benefits on your own record, are unable to work because of a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death and have not been denied disability benefits in the last 60 days. Katrine M. Erie prepares you for the initial application process. Many people are denied at the initial and reconsideration stage of the process. If you are denied, you should file an appeal at each level within 60 days.
Reconsideration
- this is the second phase in the disability determination process and generally takes between one and three months. The difference at the reconsideration phase is that your claim will be assigned to a new examiner- you will have a fresh set of eyes on your claim, but they will have all the information previously submitted and any updated medical information, questionnaires or consultative examinations.
Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing
– you and counsel appear before an ALJ for a hearing to explain how you age, education and past work experience, keep you from performing your past work or any other work in the national economy. Katrine M. Erie thoroughly prepares you for the hearing before the Judge, will submit a detailed written Memorandum/Argument as to your impairments and the merits of your disability claim.
Appeals Council
– if you are not approved for disability benefits after the ALJ hearing, we may file a Request for Review of Hearing Decision/Order with the Appeals Council based upon errors made by the ALJ in his decision. The Appeals Council may approve the claim, remand the case back to the ALJ based on errors made/for re-evaluation or deny the Request for Review.
Federal Court Appeals
– If the Appeals Council denies the Request for Review of Hearing Decision/Order, we will evaluate if you have grounds to appeal to the U.S. District Court.