What Are the Odds of Winning a Disability Appeal?

The odds of winning a disability appeal for a Social Security Disability (SSD) claim vary by stage. Research suggests that roughly 10-16% of disability appeals are approved at reconsideration, 45-58% are approved after an administrative law judge (ALJ) hearing, and less than 1% are approved by the Appeals Council. 

Meet with a Social Security Disability lawyer if you want to appeal a denied claim. Your attorney will provide insights into the odds of winning your disability appeal. Plus, they can guide you through the appeals process and help you make informed decisions every step of the way. 

Factors That Can Dictate the Odds of Winning Your Disability Appeal

Who you choose as your legal representation can make a difference in terms of the odds of getting your denied disability claim overturned.

Partner with a Social Security Disability attorney who has a track record of success with appeals. Your lawyer will account for various factors as they look for ways to boost your chances of winning your disability appeal, such as:

• Medical evidence: MRIs, X-rays, and other diagnostic tests, treatment records, statements from treating doctors that describe your limitations, and other objective medical proof can help you prove to the Social Security Administration (SSA) that your benefits request is warranted.
• Adherence to prescribed treatment: Your lawyer wants to make it clear to the SSA that you followed a recommended treatment. If you didn’t, this will damage your odds of winning your disability appeal. 
• Work activity limitations: Engaging in work that exceeds your documented functional abilities can reduce your chances of winning your appeal. It’s important to clearly document any limitations and follow your doctor’s guidance regarding activity levels. 

The Social Security Disability appeals process can feel overwhelming at times. Fortunately, you don’t have to file an appeal alone. Your attorney will answer any questions you have regarding your appeal. On top of that, they can help you submit the required documents and evidence for your appeal and do other things to increase the likelihood that you’ll secure disability benefits. 

How to Improve Your Odds of Winning Your Appeal for a Disability

Speak with a Social Security Disability lawyer before you appeal a decision that the SSA has made regarding your disability claim. Your attorney will evaluate the specifics of your claim and find out why your disability benefits request was denied. From here, they can share tips to help you with your appeal, such as:

• File your appeal immediately. You generally have 60 days from the date that you receive your denial letter to appeal. Beyond this window, you lose the right to appeal. 
• Submit updated medical evidence. Obtain new medical records, doctors’ notes, and treatment records. These can help you address the reason for your denial. 
• Ask your doctor for help. Request that your treating doctor provide a comprehensive medical opinion that explains your limitations and how these are keeping you from working. 
• Continue to receive medical care and support. Be consistent with your medical treatments. Otherwise, if there are treatment gaps, these could cause your odds of winning your disability appeal to drop significantly. 
• Maintain detailed daily records about your condition. It can be beneficial to keep a journal about your pain levels and mobility challenges from your condition. This journal could help you if the SSA has concerns about the validity of your benefits request. 

As you think about the approval rate for Social Security Disability and other factors relating to your claim, remember, you have access to legal guidance and support. Your lawyer will remain on your side as you proceed with your appeal and will position you to get the optimal results out of it. 

What Are the Odds of a Successful Disability Appeal if You Work with a Lawyer?

Some studies indicate that the odds of appealing a denied disability claim successfully could be 60% or higher for those who hire an attorney. Ways that a lawyer can help you appeal a denied disability benefits claim include:

• Reading your denial letter with you and identifying ways to correct any errors that prompted your initial claim to be rejected
• Gathering and organizing your medical records for your appeal
• Submitting your appeal before the window in which you’re allowed to do so closes
• Representing you at hearings

Outside of these things, your attorney can explain how long it takes Social Security to decide on your appeal and keep you updated as you await a decision. They will also provide you with the peace of mind that your appeal is handled with care. 

Learn More About Your Odds of Winning a Disability Appeal

The odds of getting the results you want from your disability appeal will depend on the strength of your case. If you have a proven SSD lawyer in your corner, you are well-equipped to get your claim denial reversed. 

Pilzer Klein has helped thousands of clients, including many who have gone through the disability claims appeals process. We can connect you with an SSD attorney who will prioritize your appeal and bolster your odds of success.

To get started, schedule a free consultation.