Who Issues Decisions on Social Security Disability Cases?

There are currently 10.2 million Americans who receive Social Security Disability benefits and hundreds of thousands of others who have applied for the program and are awaiting decisions. With the livelihoods of so many United States citizens on the line, many wonder, “Who decides the outcome of Social Security Disability cases?”

At Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin, we understand the intricacies of the laws that govern Social Security programs. Our Social Security Disability lawyers explain that a different person decides the outcome of a Social Security Disability case depending on where the claim is in the decision-making process.

When a claim is initially filed, the case will be looked at by a Social Security Disability claim examiner. They will either award benefits or issue a denial. If the claim is denied, others can then examine the case through the appeals process.

Once an appeal has been filed, your case will go back to a claim examiner who will reevaluate the decision. If the initial denial is upheld, the case can move through the appeals process and be heard by an administrative law judge. The Social Security Administration explains the judge will use five cireteria to determine your eligibility for the disability program.

If your case is denied once again, it can go before the federal courts for review.

Our attorneys at Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin have helped many clients navigate through the complex processes of applying for Social Security Disability benefits and they can do the same for you. Call us at (800) 477-7315 to learn more about how we can help you get the compensation you deserve.