Have You Been Denied Social Security Benefits?

An unfortunate fact is that the majority of benefits applications are rejected by the Social Security Administration the first time they are filed. Nearly all applicants will need to appeal at least once to get the benefits they are entitled to.

At the Kennedy Law Firm, PLLC, we help Tennessee SSI and SSDI applicants through all steps of the appeal process to get them the benefits they deserve and are entitled to under the law. Having an experienced attorney on your side is essential to navigating the various levels of appeals that may be necessary for a successful claim. Our Christian attorneys have represented clients in the Clarksville area since 1984.

Understanding the appeals process after a denial of benefits

Even the most thoroughly prepared and well-documented claims are likely to be rejected the first time around. Less than 40% of claims result in a benefits award after the initial application. Those who have been denied benefits can work their way up through the appeals process through these steps:

• This first level of appeal must take place within 60 days. Your claim will be considered again by a new examiner at the same agency. Reconsiderations are rarely successful.
• An administrative law judge conducts a hearing where you and your attorney can present evidence and witnesses.
• Appeals Council. A judge’s decision can be appealed to an Appeals Council. This council does not rehear the entire case but rather focuses on errors made by the judge. The Appeals Council may choose not to hear your claim, in which case you can appeal in federal court.

Our attorneys work closely with applicants at all levels of their claim and appeal. We help collect evidence and present it in a way that maximizes your chances of a successful appeal. Our attorneys will always give you fair and honest advice about your chances of a successful appeal at each level of the process.

Appealing an SSI or SSDI claim in a Tennessee federal court

The final possible appeal in any SSI or SSDI case involves bringing your claim in front of a federal court. While very few applicants take their case this far, the overwhelming majority of people who reach this level (more than 81%) are successful at receiving at least some benefits. An appeal at this level is made much easier when you work with an attorney who has courtroom experience. Our attorneys are seasoned litigators who are knowledgeable about the Social Security appeals process. We make this process as easy as possible for our clients.

Affording an attorney for your Social Security appeals

Any legal services provided in connection to applying for benefits or appealing a decision concerning benefits fall under special rules. In most cases, legal fees are limited to whichever is less: the back pay you are awarded by the Social Security Administration or $6,000.

Make the appeals process easier with the help of a compassionate Tennessee attorney

Your Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability Insurance appeal does not need to be an uphill battle. When you work with the Christians attorneys at the Kennedy Law Firm, PLLC, you are getting help from experienced and knowledgeable lawyers who are focused on serving our clients and serving God. To schedule a free informational consultation, call our Clarksville office at 931-444-5620 or contact us online.