If you wish to appeal the initial (first) denial of your claim, you must complete and submit a Request for Reconsideration form (Form SSA-561), a Disability Report – Appeal form (Form SSA-3441), and an Authorization to Disclose Information to the Social Security Administration form (Form SSA-827).

If you have already been receiving disability benefits and SSA makes a decision to stop your benefits, you must complete a Request for Reconsideration - Disability Cessation form (Form SSA-789), a Disability Report – Appeal form (Form SSA-3441), and an Authorization to Disclose Information to SSA form (Form SSA-827).

If you are appealing the Reconsideration (second) denial, you must complete and submit a Request for Hearing by Administrative Law Judge form (Form HA-501), a Disability Report – Appeal form (Form SSA-3441), and an Authorization to Disclose Information to SSA form (Form SSA-827).

If you’re appealing an ALJ decision to the AC, you may use a Request for Review of Hearing Decision/Order (HA-520) or you may simply write a letter explaining why you disagree with the ALJ’s decision.  You should send the appeal directly to the AC at the following address: “Appeals Council, SSA/OARO, 5107 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3255.”

When filling out the forms, please include the reasons why you believe you were unfairly denied benefits.  There are also attachments to include when submitting your forms, such as recent medical records, or having an employer write a letter about your ability to work, or your doctor writing a letter.  

Social Security Disability Topics

The Social Security Disability Process

Types of Social Security Disability Benefits

How Social Security Determines if You Are Disabled

Improving Your Chances of Winning

Do I really need to get an attorney?

Your Hearing Before An Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

Appealing a Denial of Benefits