Understand Why You Were Denied

• Carefully review your denial letter: Identify the specific reasons—whether medical, procedural, or vocational—that the SSA gave for rejecting your claim.
• Match those reasons to SSA criteria: Pinpoint which listing requirements or evidentiary gaps the SSA found unmet.

Gather and Update Your Medical Evidence

• Obtain all recent records: Include every doctor’s note, hospital report, lab result, and imaging study since your original application.
• Get detailed function reports: Ask your treating physician to provide a narrative or RFC (Residual Functional Capacity) form describing exactly how your condition limits your abilities.
• Include new specialists’ opinions: If you’ve seen new providers—orthopedists, neurologists, psychiatrists—their input can fill gaps and strengthen your appeal.

File the Correct Appeal on Time

• Choose the right level: Most appellants begin with Reconsideration, then progress to an ALJ hearing if still denied.
• Watch your deadlines: You generally have 60 days from the date of your denial letter to file each appeal. Missing this window can force you to start over.

Prepare a Compelling Hearing Request

• Draft a clear “Statement of Issues”: Outline exactly what you disagree with and what evidence you’ll submit.
• Submit supporting documents early: Provide the ALJ with all your medical records, function reports, and any vocational expert critiques well before the hearing date.

Master Your Hearing Presentation

• Practice your testimony: Be ready to describe how your daily life is impacted—use specific examples of tasks you can no longer perform.
• Bring credible witnesses: A supportive family member, caregiver, or treating doctor can reinforce your account.
• Coordinate with experts: A vocational expert can explain why no jobs match your physical and mental capacities.

Address Vocational Issues Head‑On

• Understand the “grid rules”: Familiarize yourself with how your age, education, and work history interact with your RFC to rule out other work.
• Have a vocational expert ready: They can testify about the lack of available occupations you can perform, given your limitations.

Follow Up and Stay Organized

• Keep copies of everything: Every letter, form, and piece of evidence should be catalogued and easily accessible.
• Respond promptly to SSA requests: If the ALJ or Appeals Council seeks more information, get it in right away.
• Track your case status: Use your my Social Security account or call to ensure no unexpected delays.