Columbus SSI Denial Lawyer
Has Your SSI Claim Been Denied in Columbus, GA?
If you’ve recently received a denial for your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claim, you're not alone. Many applicants are discouraged after an initial denial, but that doesn’t mean your claim is over. At Affleck & Gordon, our experienced Columbus SSI denial attorneys are here to help you navigate the appeals process and fight for the benefits you deserve.
We understand how vital SSI benefits can be for individuals with limited income and resources. Whether you’re applying for the first time or dealing with a denial, our legal team in Columbus, GA, is committed to helping you secure the financial assistance you need.
What is Supplemental Security Income?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides monthly payments to individuals who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 and older with limited income and resources. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), SSI is not based on your work history.
To qualify, you must:
- Have limited income and assets
- Be a U.S. citizen or meet certain immigration requirements
- Be 65 or older, or
- Be blind or disabled under SSA’s definition
- SSI benefits are crucial for covering basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing. However, despite being a needs-based program, the approval process is often strict and complex.
Reasons Your SSI Claim is Denied
Getting denied for SSI benefits can feel like a devastating setback, but it’s important to understand the reasons behind the decision. Common reasons for SSI denial include:
- Income or Resource Limits Exceeded: SSI is designed for individuals with very limited financial means. If your income or resources exceed SSA limits, your application may be denied—even if you meet the disability requirement.
- Insufficient Medical Evidence: The SSA requires extensive documentation to prove disability. If your medical records are incomplete, outdated, or don’t clearly support your claim, your application may be rejected.
- Failure to Follow Treatment: If you don’t follow prescribed treatments or attend scheduled medical appointments, the SSA may assume your condition isn’t serious or manageable with treatment.
- Noncompliance with SSA Requests: Failing to respond to SSA letters, missing deadlines, or skipping required evaluations can result in an automatic denial.
- Previous Denials: Reapplying without addressing previous denial reasons often leads to another rejection. It’s critical to appeal instead of starting over.
At Affleck & Gordon, our Columbus SSI denial lawyers can help identify exactly why your claim was denied and guide you on how to strengthen your appeal.
Call (404) 990-3945 or contact us online today to schedule an initial consultation with our Columbus SSI denial attorney.
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Affleck & Gordon won my case!
“I filed for SSDI and had to appeal, so I hired Affleck & Gordon. The attorneys talked to me with the utmost respect and treated me like I was actually someone, not just a number.”
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I could not be more grateful to the team at Affleck & Gordon.
“I would like to thank Affleck & Gordon for representing me in my SSDI case. They are professional and caring and were always available when I had questions and concerns. Even during a pandemic, they got the job done for me.”
T. Curtis
Steps to Take If Your SSI Claim Was Denied
A denial doesn't mean you're out of options. There is a multi-level appeals process available. Here’s what to do next:
- Request a Reconsideration: This is the first step in the appeals process. You must file within 60 days of receiving your denial notice. A new SSA representative will review your case.
- Appeal to an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If reconsideration fails, the next step is a hearing before an ALJ. This is your best opportunity to present new evidence and testimony in person or via video.
- Appeal to the Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can ask the SSA Appeals Council to review the decision.
- File a Lawsuit in Federal Court: As a last resort, you can take your case to federal district court.
FAQs about SSI Denial in Columbus, GA
How long do I have to appeal an SSI denial?
You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to file an appeal. It's crucial to act quickly.
Can I submit new evidence during my appeal?
Yes. You can and should submit any new medical records, evaluations, or other documentation that supports your claim during the appeals process.
What if I missed the appeal deadline?
If you missed the deadline, you may have to start a new application. In rare cases, the SSA will accept a late appeal if you have a good reason—such as illness or hospitalization.
Do I need a lawyer to appeal an SSI denial?
While it’s not required, having a lawyer greatly increases your chances of success. The appeals process is complex, and a skilled attorney can build a stronger case.
How much does it cost to hire a Columbus SSI denial lawyer?
At Affleck & Gordon, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay anything upfront, and we only get paid if you win your case.
Why Choose Affleck & Gordon as Your Columbus SSI Denial Lawyer?
- Experience You Can Trust – We’ve helped numerous clients in Columbus, GA navigate the SSI denial process and win their appeals.
- Personalized Legal Support – Every case is unique. We take the time to understand your situation and tailor our approach accordingly.
- Proven Track Record – Our SSI attorneys have a history of success in administrative hearings, Appeals Council reviews, and federal court litigation.
- Local Knowledge – We’re based right here in Columbus, GA, and we’re familiar with local SSA offices, judges, and procedures.
Contact us today at (404) 990-3945 to let our Columbus SSI denial lawyers fight for you!
How a Columbus, GA SSI Attorney from Affleck & Gordon Can Help
The process of seeking SSI benefits can be challenging, complex, and time-consuming. If your claim is denied, it is in your best interests to work with a qualified SSD attorney who can help you file your appeal. However, even if you have yet to submit your application, it is smart to hire an attorney. An attorney can review your claim and make sure you have all of the necessary documents in order before you file. This can help you avoid mistakes and make a huge difference in the outcome of your case.
Our firm has been serving aged and disabled individuals, workers, and veterans, as well as their families, throughout Georgia for more than 45 years. We have the experience necessary to guide you through the Social Security disability process and seek the fair SSI benefits you are owed.
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You Deserve Dedicated Representation At Affleck & Gordon, we are committed to providing the highest possible legal counsel. We return calls promptly, keep you up to date on your case, and will always be there for you. We do not rest until you get what you deserve.
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You Deserve Experienced Counsel With over 45 years of experience and tens of thousands of individuals helped, our team has the skill, resources, and determination to aggressively and strategically evaluate, understand and fight your claim.
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You Deserve a Thorough Team The Affleck & Gordon team is not only committed to your case, but we are committed to you. We understand that this is your life and your future, and will diligently do everything on our end to obtain a favorable decision on your behalf.
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You Deserve Financial Security Your case is important to you, and it’s important to us. It represents how you will or will not be able to take care of your basic needs, as well as those of your family, for the foreseeable future. We are committed to fighting for what you deserve.
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