What Happens If Your Social Security Disability Claim Is Denied?

August 15, 2024

Having your Social Security Disability (SSD) claim denied can be disheartening, but it's essential to understand that denial is not the end of the road. If your SSD claim is denied, several steps can be taken to appeal the decision and fight for the benefits you deserve. Here's what happens if your SSD claim is denied and how you can proceed:


Notification of Denial

Upon receiving notice of denial from the Social Security Administration (SSA), you'll be informed of the reasons for the denial and your right to appeal the decision. It's crucial to review the denial letter carefully and understand the specific grounds on which your claim was denied.


Request for Reconsideration

The first step in the appeals process is requesting reconsideration of your claim. This involves submitting a request for review of your case by a different examiner at the SSA. You'll have the opportunity to provide additional evidence and documentation to support your claim during this stage.


Administrative Hearing

If your claim is denied upon reconsideration, you have the option to request a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). Administrative hearings are more formal proceedings where you'll have the opportunity to present evidence, testimony, and witnesses to support your claim. It's essential to be prepared for the hearing and to present a compelling case for approval.


Appeals Council Review

If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the SSA's Appeals Council. The Appeals Council will examine your case to determine if the ALJ made any errors in their decision. While the review process can be lengthy, it provides another opportunity to present your case and potentially overturn the denial.


Federal Court Review

If your claim is denied by the Appeals Council, you have the option to file a lawsuit in federal court. Federal court review is typically the final step in the appeals process and involves presenting your case to a federal judge for review. While federal court review can be time-consuming and complex, it provides another avenue for seeking approval of your SSD claim.


How Wood & Carlton, P.C. Can Help

At Wood & Carlton, P.C., we understand the challenges of navigating the SSD appeals process. Our experienced attorneys can assist you at every stage of the appeals process, from requesting reconsideration to representing you in administrative hearings and federal court proceedings. We'll work tirelessly to advocate for your rights and help you obtain the benefits you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you with your SSD claim.

Exploring the Appeals Council and Federal Court Levels for SSD Appeals

July 17, 2025
Introduction: Navigating the Social Security Disability (SSD) appeals process can be complex and daunting, especially for individuals who have had their initial SSD claims denied. Fortunately, claimants have the opportunity to seek further review of their cases at the Appeals Council and, if necessary, in federal court. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., with offices in Corinth, Tupelo, and Pontotoc, Mississippi, our experienced SSD attorneys are well-versed in the appeals process and can provide valuable guidance to claimants at every stage. In this blog post, we'll explore the Appeals Council and Federal Court levels for SSD appeals and offer insights to help claimants understand their options. The Appeals Council: The Appeals Council is the next level of review after an initial denial of SSD benefits. Claimants who receive an unfavorable decision from an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) can request a review by the Appeals Council. The Appeals Council examines the ALJ's decision for errors of law or procedure and may overturn, modify, or remand the decision for further review. Requesting Review by the Appeals Council: To request a review by the Appeals Council, claimants must submit a written appeal within 60 days of receiving the ALJ's decision. The appeal should include specific reasons why the claimant believes the decision is incorrect and may include additional evidence or legal arguments to support their case. The Appeals Council's Decision: Upon reviewing the case, the Appeals Council may take several actions, including affirming the ALJ's decision, issuing a new decision, or remanding the case for further review. If the Appeals Council denies the claimant's request for review, the ALJ's decision becomes final.  Federal Court Review: If a claimant disagrees with the Appeals Council's decision or if the Appeals Council denies their request for review, they may file a lawsuit in federal court seeking judicial review of their SSD claim. Federal court review provides claimants with the opportunity to present their case before a federal judge, who will evaluate whether the SSA's decision was supported by substantial evidence and free from legal errors. Legal Representation: Navigating the Appeals Council and federal court levels of SSD appeals requires experienced legal representation. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., our SSD attorneys have a deep understanding of the appeals process and can provide skilled advocacy to help claimants present their cases effectively at each stage of review. Conclusion: The Appeals Council and federal court levels offer claimants additional opportunities to appeal unfavorable decisions in SSD cases. With the guidance of skilled attorneys at Wood & Carlton, P.C., claimants can navigate the appeals process with confidence and increase their chances of obtaining the SSD benefits they deserve. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your SSD appeal and learn more about how we can assist you.

What Injured Workers Should Know About Light Duty Work Assignments in Mississippi

July 3, 2025
Introduction: When workers suffer injuries on the job in Mississippi, returning to work can be a complex process, particularly when their injuries prevent them from resuming their regular job duties. In such cases, employers may offer light duty work assignments as a transitional measure to accommodate injured workers while they recover. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., with offices in Corinth, Tupelo, and Pontotoc, Mississippi, our experienced workers' compensation attorneys are well-versed in light duty work assignments and can provide valuable guidance to injured workers navigating this aspect of the workers' comp process. In this blog post, we'll discuss what injured workers should know about light duty work assignments in Mississippi. Definition of Light Duty Work: Light duty work refers to modified job duties or tasks that are less physically demanding than the injured worker's regular job duties. These assignments are typically temporary and are designed to accommodate the worker's restrictions or limitations resulting from their injury, allowing them to remain productive and employed while they recover. Employer's Obligations: Under Mississippi workers' compensation laws, employers have an obligation to offer suitable light duty work assignments to injured workers who are capable of performing them. Failure to provide light duty work when available may result in penalties for the employer and could impact the worker's entitlement to workers' compensation benefits. Eligibility Criteria: Whether an injured worker is eligible for light duty work assignments depends on various factors, including the nature and extent of their injuries, medical restrictions or limitations imposed by their healthcare provider, and the availability of suitable light duty positions within the employer's organization. Wage Considerations: Injured workers who accept light duty work assignments may receive reduced wages compared to their pre-injury earnings. However, they may still be entitled to partial wage replacement benefits under workers' compensation laws to offset the difference between their pre-injury and post-injury earnings.  Rights of Injured Workers: Injured workers should be aware of their rights when offered light duty work assignments. They have the right to seek clarification from their healthcare provider regarding their medical restrictions and limitations and to request accommodations that align with their abilities and medical needs. Legal Advocacy from Wood & Carlton, P.C.: Navigating light duty work assignments and workers' compensation benefits can be complex, especially for injured workers dealing with the aftermath of a workplace injury. At Wood & Carlton, P.C., our dedicated workers' comp attorneys can provide comprehensive legal assistance and advocacy to ensure that injured workers' rights are protected and that they receive the benefits they deserve. Conclusion: Understanding light duty work assignments is essential for injured workers in Mississippi who are navigating the workers' compensation process. With the guidance of experienced attorneys at Wood & Carlton, P.C., injured workers can navigate light duty work assignments with confidence and advocate for their rights throughout the workers' comp process. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your workers' comp claim and learn more about how we can help you.