What Happens After You File a Social Security Disability Appeal: Timeline and What to Expect

Filing an appeal is the point where many disability claims become more focused, more evidence-driven, and more “process-heavy.” The initial decision is often made on a limited record. An appeal is your opportunity to correct gaps, clarify your limitations, and keep the case moving through the stages Social Security provides.

Need help with your Social Security Disability claim? Call Carmichael Law Group today at (888) 687-6022.

Here is a practical, step-by-step look at what typically happens after an appeal is filed.

1) Social Security Confirms the Appeal Was Received

After you submit an appeal, you should receive confirmation that it was accepted and is moving forward. That confirmation matters because it helps document that your appeal was filed on time and keeps the claim active.

Even if you are still gathering records, protecting the deadline is usually the priority. Evidence can often be developed during the appeal process, but a missed deadline can force you into a very different set of options.

2) The Case Moves into Reconsideration

Reconsideration is typically the first appeal step after an initial denial. A different reviewer evaluates the file again, including any updated materials submitted.

At this stage:

• You typically do not appear before a judge.
• Most communication is handled through paperwork and record review.
• The decision often turns on whether the file now addresses the reason Social Security denied the claim.

Even when reconsideration does not result in an approval, it is often the required step before a hearing request can be filed.

3) The Record Should Be Developed During Reconsideration

Reconsideration is not a “wait and see” period. It is usually the first opportunity to strengthen the claim in a targeted way.

Common additions during this stage include:

• Updated treatment records and specialist notes
• Testing, imaging, and evaluations that were missing or incomplete
• Functional limitation evidence that connects symptoms to work restrictions
• Clarifications that respond directly to what the denial notice said was lacking

One of the more common problems we see is that a reconsideration appeal is filed, but the underlying weaknesses from the initial filing are never fixed. That can make the next denial feel predictable.

4) If Reconsideration Is Denied, the Next Step Is an ALJ Hearing Request

If reconsideration is denied, the next stage is typically a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). A hearing request must also be filed within a deadline.

This is where the process changes in a meaningful way: the claim moves from a paper review into a setting where testimony, vocational evidence, and a fully developed record tend to matter more.

Not sure what comes next after filing your SSD appeal? Call Carmichael Law Group today at (888) 687-6022 to understand the process and timing.