What are the appeal steps after SSDI denial in Utah?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 06/06/2025
Getting denied Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can be discouraging, but it's not the end of the road. In Utah, you have the right to appeal the decision, and many successful disability claims are approved during the appeals process. Here’s a breakdown of the steps you should take after receiving an SSDI denial.
Find out if you qualify for SSDI benefits. Pre-qualify in 60 seconds for up to $4,018 per month and 12 months back pay.
Please answer a few questions to help us determine your eligibility.
Step 1: Request for Reconsideration
The first step is to file a Request for Reconsideration. This is a full review of your original application by a different examiner at the Utah Disability Determination Services (DDS).
- Deadline: You must submit this request within 60 days of receiving your denial letter.
- What to Do: Provide any updated or additional medical evidence that supports your disability claim.
- How to File: You can submit your reconsideration request online, by mail, or in person at your local SSA office.
Only a small percentage of claims are approved at this stage, but it is a required step before moving to a hearing.
Step 2: Request a Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
If your reconsideration is also denied, the next step is to request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
- Deadline: Again, you have 60 days from your second denial to request this hearing.
- What to Expect: The judge will review your medical records, hear your testimony, and may question expert witnesses about your ability to work.
- Where It Happens: Hearings are typically held at an SSA Office of Hearings Operations (OHO) in Utah or virtually via phone or video.
This is your best chance to present your case in detail and clarify how your condition affects your daily life and ability to work.
Step 3: Appeals Council Review
If the ALJ denies your claim, you can escalate your case to the Appeals Council.
- What They Do: The Council will review your hearing for legal or procedural errors.
- Possible Outcomes: They can approve your claim, send it back to the judge for another hearing, or uphold the denial.
- Submission: You must submit this request within 60 days of the ALJ’s decision.
The Appeals Council does not hold another hearing; they decide based on the written record.
Step 4: Federal Court Review
If all previous steps fail, you have the right to file a lawsuit in Federal District Court.
- Who Should Do This: It’s highly recommended to have legal representation at this stage.
- What It Involves: You’re asking a federal judge to review the SSA’s decision for legal errors—not to re-evaluate your medical condition.
This is the final step in the appeals process and can be lengthy and complex.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Appealing an SSDI denial in Utah can feel overwhelming, especially if you're dealing with health challenges. Hogan Smith can support you every step of the way by:
- Handling paperwork and deadlines so you don’t miss critical appeal windows
- Gathering strong medical evidence to strengthen your case
- Representing you at your ALJ hearing and preparing you for questioning
- Filing appeals with the SSA and, if necessary, in federal court
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If your SSDI claim was denied in Utah, don’t give up. Contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your options, build a stronger case, and guide you through every step of the appeal process.
Further Reading
Boost Your Chance of Being Approved
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Our experts have helped thousands like you get cash benefits.
How It Works
1
Briefly tell us about your case
2
Provide your contact information
3
Choose attorneys to contact you