What happens after the claim is filed?

1.  The Social Security Administration will send your case to a State Disability Determination Agency to gather additional information and to make an initial determination on your claim.

2.  The case is assigned to an adjudicator. The adjudicator may arrange to have you seen by an independent medical examiner. They may send you forms to complete which describe your activities and problems. They should obtain records and ask your doctor for a report.

3.  If the claim is denied, a Request for Reconsideration may be filed. The Reconsideration is sent back to the same State Agency, but given to a different Adjudicator. If the Reconsideration is denied, a Request for Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge may then be filed.

The Administrative Law Judge Hearing

The Administrative Law Judge is independent from all other persons at the Social Security Administration who have considered your case to that point. In some cases, the ALJ may respond to written argument by the representative and approve the claim without a hearing. If a hearing is necessary, it will be conducted at a local hearing office. You and your attorney will be present. Sometimes a vocational expert or medical advisor is called by the ALJ as well to help development of the medical and vocational aspects of your case. You and your attorney have the opportunity to cross examine the witnesses and to present arguments to the Judge.

If the Administrative Law Judge denies the claim, in most States, a further review may be taken to the Appeals Council. If the Appeals Council denies your Request for Review, the case may be appealed to the United States court system.