How to file a disability appeal in New Jersey?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 05/21/2025
If your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claim has been denied in New Jersey, you're not alone—many valid claims are denied at the initial stage. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a multi-step appeals process that gives you the opportunity to fight for the benefits you deserve.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to file a disability appeal in New Jersey.
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Step 1: Understand the Reason for Denial
Carefully read the denial letter from the SSA. It will explain:
- Why your claim was denied
- What evidence was lacking
- Which step of the disability evaluation process you did not meet
Understanding the reasoning will help you strengthen your appeal.
Step 2: File a Request for Reconsideration
The first formal step in the appeals process is the Request for Reconsideration.
- Deadline: You must file within 60 days of receiving your denial notice.
- How to File: Visit www.ssa.gov and file online, or complete Form SSA-561 and mail or deliver it to your local SSA office.
- What to Include: Submit any new or updated medical evidence and clarify any misunderstandings from your initial application.
Step 3: Request a Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
If your reconsideration is denied, the next step is to request a hearing.
- Deadline: Again, you have 60 days to request a hearing after the reconsideration denial.
- How to Request: Submit the request online or via Form HA-501.
- What Happens: You'll appear (in person, by phone, or via video) before an ALJ who will review your case independently.
Make sure to:
- Prepare detailed medical records
- Obtain a statement from your doctor
- Be ready to testify about how your disability affects your daily life
Step 4: Continue Through Further Appeals if Necessary
If the ALJ denies your claim, you may pursue additional steps:
- Appeals Council Review: Request a review by the SSA Appeals Council.
- Federal Court Review: If denied again, you can file a lawsuit in a federal district court.
New Jersey-Specific Considerations
- Your hearing may take place at one of New Jersey's Office of Hearings Operations (OHO) locations, such as Newark or Jersey City.
- Wait times can be long, so filing quickly and completely is essential.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Filing a disability appeal in New Jersey can be complex and frustrating—but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Hogan Smith, we help individuals:
- Understand the reason for their denial
- Gather missing medical documentation
- File appeals quickly and accurately
- Prepare for and represent you at ALJ hearings
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If your disability claim was denied, don’t give up. Contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation, and we’ll walk you through the appeals process step by step. We’re here to help you secure the benefits you need and deserve.
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