1. Understand Why Your Claim Was Denied

The first step is to carefully read your denial letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Common reasons include:

• Lack of sufficient medical evidence.
• Your condition is not considered severe enough to prevent work.
• You did not meet the SSA’s work credit requirements.
• Failure to respond to SSA requests for additional information.
• The SSA believes you can still perform some type of work.

Knowing the exact reason for your denial helps you address the problem directly in your appeal.

2. Meet the Appeal Deadline

In Missouri, you must file your appeal within 60 days of receiving your denial letter. Missing this deadline could mean starting over with a brand-new application, which can delay benefits by months or even years.

3. Stages of the SSDI Appeal Process in Missouri

The appeal process has multiple levels:

a. Reconsideration

• Your case is reviewed by someone who did not make the initial decision.
• This step focuses on correcting errors and adding new evidence.
• You should submit updated medical records or additional documentation during this phase.

b. Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing

• If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing.
• Hearings are held at Missouri Office of Hearings Operations (OHO) locations or via video conference.
• You will testify about your condition, and vocational and medical experts may provide input.
• Having legal representation at this stage is highly recommended.

c. Appeals Council Review

• If the ALJ denies your claim, you can ask the SSA Appeals Council to review your case.
• They may approve, deny, or send your case back for another hearing.

d. Federal Court

• As a final step, you can file a lawsuit in federal district court.
• This is typically handled by experienced disability attorneys.

4. Strengthening Your Appeal

To improve your chances of winning your appeal in Missouri:

• Update Your Medical Evidence – Provide recent test results, treatment notes, and specialist opinions.
• Include Functional Assessments – Have your doctors complete Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) forms.
• Get Detailed Statements – Written statements from employers, friends, or family explaining how your condition affects daily life can help.
• Stay Consistent – Make sure all medical reports and statements match your claims.
• Work with a Disability Attorney – Missouri SSDI lawyers are familiar with local SSA offices and hearing procedures.

5. Missouri–Specific Considerations

• Hearing Wait Times – Depending on your location (Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield), ALJ hearings can take several months to schedule.
• Approval Rates – Missouri’s approval rate at the hearing stage is slightly above the national average, especially for applicants with strong medical documentation.
• Local Legal Aid – Some nonprofit organizations in Missouri offer free or low-cost help for SSDI appeals.