Walhalla Social Security Disability Appeals Lawyer

If your Social Security Disability claim has been denied, you are not alone. Many applicants receive denials on their first attempt, even when they have a legitimate disability that prevents them from working. However, a denial does not mean the process is over. 

You have the right to appeal, and with the help of an experienced Social Security Disability appeals lawyer in Walhalla, SC, you can increase your chances of securing the benefits you need.

At Pilzer Klein, we focus solely on Social Security Disability cases, representing clients in Walhalla and the surrounding areas. Our team of Walhalla Social Security disability lawyers understands the complex appeals process and is dedicated to helping individuals fight back against unfair denials.

Common Reasons for Social Security Disability Denials

The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies claims for many reasons, often due to issues that can be corrected during the appeals process. Common reasons for denial include:

• Lack of medical evidence: Your medical records must clearly prove that your condition prevents you from working. Missing or incomplete records can lead to a denial.
• Failure to follow prescribed treatment: If you do not follow your doctor’s recommendations, SSA may assume your condition is not as severe as claimed.
• Earning too much income: SSA enforces a Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which means if you earn over a certain amount, your claim may be denied.
• Insufficient work credits: SSDI is based on your work history. If you have not earned enough credits through employment, you may not qualify.
• Application errors:  Mistakes in your application, missing documents, or failure to provide requested information can lead to a denial.

If your claim has been denied, it is important to understand the reason and take the necessary steps to strengthen your appeal. A Social Security disability appeals lawyer can help you with this process. 

How the Social Security Disability Appeals Process Works

If your initial claim is denied, you can challenge the decision through a multi-step appeals process. Each stage offers an opportunity to present additional evidence and argue your case.

Reconsideration

The first step in the appeals process is a reconsideration. This means your claim will be reviewed by a different SSA examiner who was not involved in the initial decision. You can submit new medical evidence and clarify any misunderstandings from your first application.

Many claims are still denied at this stage, making it critical to prepare for the next step.

Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing

If your reconsideration request is denied, you have the right to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is often the most important stage in the appeals process, as it allows you to present your case in person.

During the hearing, the judge will review your medical records, hear testimony from you and any witnesses, and may question vocational or medical experts. Proper preparation is key to success at this stage, and an experienced attorney can help ensure that your case is well-documented and presented effectively.

Appeals Council Review

If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the Social Security Appeals Council. The council will determine whether the judge made errors in their decision. If they find mistakes, they may overturn the decision or send the case back for another hearing.

Federal Court Appeal

If your claim is still denied, the final option is to file a lawsuit in federal court with a Social Security disability lawyer. A judge will review your case to determine whether SSA followed the law when making its decision. This is a complex legal process, and having an attorney is essential at this stage.

How a Social Security Disability Appeals Attorney in Walhalla, SC, Can Help

The appeals process can be overwhelming, and many applicants struggle to provide the necessary evidence to support their claims. A skilled attorney can help by:

• Gathering and organizing medical evidence to strengthen your appeal
• Ensuring all deadlines are met and that proper documentation is submitted
• Preparing you for your ALJ hearing by explaining what to expect and how to present your case effectively
• Identifying and correcting any mistakes made in your initial application or reconsideration request
• Challenging SSA’s reasoning for denial and presenting strong legal arguments in your favor

At Pilzer Klein, we have years of experience handling Social Security Disability appeals, and we know what it takes to build a strong case for our clients.

What to Expect in an ALJ Hearing

For many applicants, the ALJ hearing is the most crucial stage of the appeals process. Unlike the earlier stages, this hearing gives you the opportunity to explain your condition in person and respond to the judge’s questions.

During the hearing, the judge may ask about:

• The severity of your medical condition and how it affects your ability to work
• The treatments you have undergone and whether they have improved your condition
• Your daily activities and any limitations you experience

You may also have the opportunity to present testimony from medical professionals, vocational experts, or other witnesses who can support your claim. Having an attorney present during this hearing ensures that your case is argued effectively.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Social Security Disability Appeals Lawyer?

Many people worry about the cost of hiring an attorney for their Social Security Disability appeal. However, disability attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if you win your case.

Attorney fees are limited to 25% of your past-due benefits, with a maximum cap of $7,200. There are no upfront costs, so you can get legal help without financial risk.

What if My Claim Was Denied for Earning Too Much?

One of the most common reasons for denial is exceeding SSA’s income limits under the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) rule. Many applicants misunderstand how SSA evaluates income, as the agency considers gross income, not net income.

If your earnings are near the SGA limit, SSA may assume you are capable of working, leading to a denial. Our firm carefully assesses income eligibility before proceeding with an appeal to ensure that your case meets SSA’s financial requirements.

Get Help From a Social Security Disability Appeals Lawyer in Walhalla, SC

If your Social Security Disability claim was denied, do not give up. The appeals process gives you another opportunity to fight for the benefits you deserve. Pilzer Klein has extensive experience as Walhalla Social Security Disability appeals attorneys, and we are committed to helping our clients navigate this challenging process.

Contact us today for a free consultation with a Walhalla Social Security Disability appeals lawyer. We are here to help you build a strong case and pursue the benefits you need.