It’s not easy to get approved for Social Security disability benefits. In fact, most initial applications are rejected. But even if you are approved, it’s important to understand that your benefits may not last forever. Your benefits may stop whenever the Social Security Administration (SSA) determines you are no longer eligible for them. Fortunately, there is a way to appeal this decision. Here’s what you need to know:
How to Appeal the Cessation of Disability Benefits
The first step in appealing the SSA’s decision is submitting the SSA-789-U4 or “Request for Reconsideration-Disability Cessation” form. On this form, you will need to explain why you disagree with the SSA’s decision to stop your benefits.
For example, let’s say the SSA stops your benefits because they conclude that you are no longer disabled. In this case, you would need to explain why this assumption about your disability is incorrect. Don’t rely on your words alone—provide additional medical documentation to support your argument. The goal is to disprove the SSA’s argument.
You will also need to submit the “Disability Report-Appeal” form, which will ask for updated medical information and other forms of evidence related to your appeal.
A hearing will be scheduled after you officially file the appeal. You are not required to appear at this hearing, but it’s best to consult with your attorney to determine whether or not you should attend. An attorney can represent you at this hearing, call witnesses to testify on your behalf, and present a strong case to the disability hearing officer.
The disability hearing officer presiding over the hearing will make a decision regarding the cessation of your benefits after reviewing your case.
How to Continue Receiving Benefits During the Appeal
It’s important to take action to ensure you continue to receive benefits while your case is under review. If you want to keep receiving benefits, you must submit a written request to the SSA within 10 days from the date you were notified that your benefits were ending. This request is completely separate from the appeal paperwork, so don’t assume that you will continue to receive benefits simply because you have filed an appeal.
Have you stopped receiving disability benefits? If so, seek legal representation from Armstrong & Vaught, P.L.C. at once. Let our attorneys guide you through the process of appealing this decision and reinstating the disability benefits you deserve. Call us at (918) 582-2500 or toll-free at (800) 722-8880 or complete the simple form below for a free consultation with a skilled attorney.