I CALLED SOCIAL SECURITY AFTER A DENIAL. IS THAT AN APPEAL?

The short answer is No. A telephone call never serves as an appeal to an unfavorable Social Security decision. The appeal requires filing a formal, written appeal and Social Security has forms for that. You may be also file an appeal online at www.socialsecurity.gov/appeal.

A new client called me recently to say her disability claim had been denied 3 months ago. She said she called Social Security and told them that she did not believe the decision was correct. Was that an appeal? No and unfortunately Social Security probably has no record of the call.

Note that any unfavorable decision must be appealed within 60 days. Wait longer than that and your are outside the appeal deadline.

If you are victim of an unfavorable Social Security decision (denial), you should seek professional advice immediately. Denials at different levels require different responses. Your best bet is to get a free consultation with one of Huntsville's experienced disability lawyers/advocates. Often, a five minute telephone call will tell you what to do.

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The Forsythe Firm, Across from Bridge Street in Huntsville. (256) 799-0297.