If your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim is denied in Georgia, you are not alone—most applications are denied at first. The good news is that you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process in Georgia includes several stages, each designed to give you another chance to prove your disability and eligibility for benefits.
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1. Reconsideration
- After your initial denial, you have 60 days to request reconsideration.
- A new examiner at Georgia’s Disability Adjudication Services (DAS) will review your case.
- This step usually takes 3 to 5 months.
- Most reconsiderations are denied, but it is a necessary step before moving to a hearing.
2. Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing
- If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an ALJ.
- This is the most important stage, where you can explain your condition in person.
- In Georgia, wait times for hearings can range from 12 to 18 months.
- At the hearing, you may testify, and medical or vocational experts may be called to give opinions.
- Having a disability attorney greatly improves your chances of success here.
3. Appeals Council Review
- If the ALJ denies your claim, you may appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council.
- The Appeals Council can:
- Uphold the denial,
- Send your case back to the ALJ for another review, or
- Approve your claim.
- This step may take several months to over a year.
4. Federal Court Review
- If the Appeals Council denies your request or upholds the denial, you can file a lawsuit in federal district court.
- This is the final step in the appeals process.
- At this stage, legal representation is essential.
How Long Does the SSDI Appeal Take in Georgia?
- Reconsideration: 3–5 months
- Hearing: 12–18 months wait + several weeks for decision
- Appeals Council: Several months to over a year
- Federal Court: 1 year or more
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we know how frustrating SSDI denials can be. Our team helps Georgia applicants by:
- Filing timely appeals at each stage,
- Gathering strong medical evidence and testimony,
- Representing you at hearings to fight for the benefits you deserve.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Don’t give up if your SSDI claim was denied in Georgia. Call Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’ll stand by you throughout the appeals process and work tirelessly to secure the benefits you need.
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