What to do if your SSDI claim is denied in Massachusetts?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 05/22/2025
Receiving a denial for your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim in Massachusetts can feel discouraging—but it’s not the end of the road. In fact, most initial SSDI applications are denied, but many applicants go on to win benefits through the appeals process.

If your SSDI claim was denied, here’s what you need to do next to protect your rights and improve your chances of approval.
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Understand Why Your Claim Was Denied
Start by carefully reading the denial letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA). This letter will explain:
- The reason for the denial (e.g., lack of medical evidence, earning too much, or not meeting criteria)
- What evidence was considered
- How to appeal and deadlines to follow
Understanding the SSA’s reasoning will help you target the issues in your appeal.
Step 1: File a Request for Reconsideration
In Massachusetts, the first step in appealing an SSDI denial is to submit a Request for Reconsideration within 60 days of receiving the denial letter.
Here’s how to do it:
- File online through the SSA’s website or by visiting your local SSA office
- Submit any new or additional medical evidence
- Double-check your application for any errors or omissions
This stage involves a different SSA examiner reviewing your case. Only about 13% of claims are approved at this stage, so be thorough and detailed.
Step 2: Request a Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge
If your reconsideration is denied (which is common), the next step is to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
What to expect at the hearing:
- You may testify about your condition
- You can bring witnesses, like doctors or vocational experts
- The ALJ will ask questions about your daily life, symptoms, and work ability
This is your best chance to win benefits, with approval rates significantly higher than earlier stages—especially if you’re well prepared.
Step 3: Appeal to the Appeals Council
If the ALJ also denies your claim, you can take your case to the Social Security Appeals Council. The Council will:
- Review the judge’s decision
- Decide whether to approve, deny, or return it for another hearing
This step is more limited, as the Council may refuse to review your case unless there was a legal or procedural error.
Step 4: File a Lawsuit in Federal Court
If all else fails, you can file a lawsuit in U.S. District Court. This is a federal legal action, so it’s highly recommended that you have legal support at this point.
Tips to Strengthen Your Appeal
- Collect updated medical records showing how your condition has progressed
- Ask your doctor to provide a detailed written statement about your functional limitations
- Be honest and consistent in all interviews and paperwork
- Stay organized and meet all deadlines
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we help Massachusetts residents turn SSDI denials into approvals. Whether you just received your denial letter or are heading into a hearing, our team will:
- Review your denial and identify weaknesses
- Help gather stronger evidence to support your claim
- Represent you in hearings or appeals
- Guide you through every step—so you don’t face the SSA alone
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Don’t let an SSDI denial stop you from getting the support you deserve. Contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’ll fight for your benefits—because you shouldn’t have to do this alone.
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