Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits is never easy. The process is complex, time-consuming, and often frustrating—especially when you receive a denial. And it seems like everyone gets denied. That’s because nearly 70% of all initial applications for SSD or SSI benefits are denied. But that doesn’t mean you should give up or stop trying. In fact, it just means that you have to consider retaining an attorney to help out.
At Disparti Law Group, we’ve seen firsthand how important it is to have a knowledgeable disability law firm guiding you through each step. Our team of attorneys, case managers, medical experts and more work together to turn your denial into an approval.
If you are applying for benefits, it’s helpful to understand how the system works. This guide has been written to take you through the application process.
Step 1: Initial Application
Most applicants start by filing an application directly with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Unfortunately, the majority of claims are denied at this stage (65-70%), often because medical records are incomplete, the application was filled out wrong, or the SSA believes the applicant could still work. If a client comes to us at this phase, we can help organize the evidence, avoid common mistakes, and present your case in the strongest possible way. This will often result in getting you the benefits you deserve quickly.
Step 2: Reconsideration
When an initial claim is denied, the next step is reconsideration. A different examiner reviews your file, but statistically, most applicants are denied again. Here, a shocking 85-90% of applications are denied again. At this point, it’s even more important to have a specialized attorney involved to develop additional medical evidence and strengthen your arguments.
Step 3: Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing
This next step could be the best chance to convert a denial into an approval. It involves preparing your case and presenting it to an Administrative Law Judge.
An Administrative Law Judge is an independent judge who works for the Social Security Administration but is not part of the team that initially reviewed your application. The ALJ’s job is to take a fresh look at your case, review all the medical records, listen to testimony from you and any witnesses, and decide whether you qualify for benefits under the law. This hearing is often the best chance for applicants to win, because it’s the first time you’re able to present your story in person and have an attorney argue on your behalf.
This is where a lawyer’s role becomes crucial. An attorney can:
- Gather and present supporting medical records,
- Question witnesses or medical experts, and
- More persuasively explain to the judge why you meet SSA’s definition of disability.
Many successful cases are won at this stage, but preparation is key.
Step 4: Appeals Council
If the ALJ denies your claim, the next level is the Appeals Council, which reviews whether the judge made legal or factual errors. The possible outcomes are:
- Denied Review (80–85%) – The Appeals Council refuses to review the case, so the ALJ’s decision stands.
- Remand (10–15%) – The case is sent back to an ALJ for another hearing.
- Favorable Decision (1–2%) – In rare cases, the Appeals Council issues its own favorable decision.
These numbers show just how difficult it is to succeed at this stage—fewer than 1 in 100 claimants will have the Appeals Council itself award benefits. That’s why it is essential to have an attorney who understands how to preserve appeal issues and build a strong record early in the process. While difficult it is still possible for a win.
Most of the time, when we have a strong case and get in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), we’re able to show that our client qualifies for benefits. But sometimes, even valid claims are denied—and that can be incredibly frustrating for the people relying on these benefits. One client came to us with a clear case, only to be denied at the initial application and again at reconsideration. In the summer of 2024, we finally presented the case before an ALJ, and once again, the application was denied. We refused to give up. We filed an appeal with the Appeals Council, and in August 2025, the client finally received a fully favorable decision. The joy and relief our client felt that day reminded us why we fight so hard: to ensure that those who truly need benefits don’t have to face this journey alone.
Why Legal Representation Matters
The disability benefits system is stacked against applicants. Denials are common, deadlines are strict, and the rules are complicated. But you don’t have to face this alone. Our attorneys focus on Social Security disability law, and we know how to navigate the system, anticipate challenges, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Don’t wait until you’ve been denied multiple times to seek help. Having a reputable, specialized disability attorney from the beginning can dramatically improve your chances of success—whether at the initial application, during a hearing, or on appeal.
Disparti Law is committed to turning denials into paychecks and helping clients get the benefits they deserve.
