What a reconsideration is and why it matters

A reconsideration is your first chance to challenge a denial from Social Security. When the Social Security Administration (SSA) says no to your initial claim for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you can ask them to look at your case again with new or overlooked evidence. A different examiner will review your entire file from the start.

The reconsideration process is free and does not require a lawyer, though some people find one helpful. You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to request one. If you miss that window, you can still appeal, but you will move to a different stage called a hearing before an administrative law judge.

Reconsiderations succeed about 10 to 15 percent of the time, which is lower than a hearing before a judge. That said, many people win at reconsideration when they submit medical records or test results that were missing from the first review, or when they correct information SSA had wrong about their work history or living situation.

Key Takeaways

  • You have 60 days from your denial letter to request a reconsideration, and you must do this in writing using Form SSA-561-U2.
  • A new examiner will review your case, but they see the same file SSA already has unless you send new medical evidence or documents.
  • Reconsideration wins most often when you submit recent medical records, test results, or statements from your doctors that were not in your original claim.
  • If you do not win at reconsideration, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge, which has a higher approval rate.
  • You can represent yourself at reconsideration, but some people hire a lawyer or non-lawyer representative to help gather evidence and write the request.

How to request a reconsideration in writing

Social Security requires you to request reconsideration on Form SSA-561-U2, which you can get from your local Social Security office, by mail, or online at ssa.gov. You do not need to use the form if you write a letter instead, but using the form makes it clear what you are asking for and ensures SSA processes it correctly.

On the form or in your letter, state that you want a reconsideration of your claim. Include your name, Social Security number, and the date of your denial letter. You can write a brief explanation of why you think SSA made a mistake — for example, "My doctor's recent test results show my condition has worsened" or "SSA did not have my hospital records from 2023." Keep this short; the examiner will read your whole file.

Mail the completed form to the Social Security office that handled your claim. The address is on your denial letter. You can also deliver it in person to your local office, or ask the office whether they accept faxed or emailed requests. Keep a copy for your records and consider sending it by certified mail so you have proof of the date you submitted it.

What new evidence actually changes the outcome

The examiner at reconsideration sees the same medical records, work history, and statements that the first examiner saw. If nothing new is in your file, the second examiner will almost certainly reach the same conclusion. This is why submitting new evidence is the single most important thing you can do.

The strongest evidence is recent medical records from a doctor who has treated you. This includes test results, imaging (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans), lab work, notes from office visits, and statements from your doctor about how your condition limits your ability to work. If you have been to a hospital, emergency room, or specialist since you filed your claim, those records are often powerful because they show your condition is serious enough to require professional care.

Statements from your doctors carry real weight. A letter from your treating physician that says something like "This patient cannot work more than four hours a day due to pain and fatigue" or "This patient's condition is expected to last at least 12 months" can shift how the examiner views your case. You do not need a fancy letter — a note from your doctor's office on their letterhead is enough.

Personal statements from family members, friends, or former employers about how your condition affects you are less powerful than medical evidence, but they can fill gaps. If your doctor has not documented something important — like that you cannot lift more than 10 pounds, or that you have memory problems — a statement from someone who sees you regularly can help. Keep these statements factual and specific rather than emotional.

Gathering medical records before you submit

Start by calling every doctor, hospital, clinic, and mental health provider you have seen since your claim was filed. Ask them to send you copies of all records from the past year or two. Tell them you are appealing a disability denial and need the records quickly. Many offices will send them within a week or two if you ask in person or by phone rather than by mail.

If you have had recent tests — blood work, imaging, nerve conduction studies, psychological evaluations — make sure those results are included. These are often the most persuasive documents because they show objective findings, not just your report of symptoms. If your doctor ordered a test but you have not picked up the results, do that now.

Ask your doctor whether they are willing to write a brief statement about your limitations. You can provide a template: "Please describe how [your condition] limits this patient's ability to work, including any restrictions on sitting, standing, lifting, concentration, or other activities." Most doctors will do this if you make it straightforward for them and ask in person or by phone.

Organize the records you gather in chronological order and make two copies — one to send to SSA and one to keep. Include a cover letter that lists what you are sending, so SSA knows nothing got lost in the mail.

When to hire a representative for reconsideration

You do not need a lawyer or representative to request reconsideration. Many people handle it themselves, especially if they have recent medical records to submit and a clear explanation of why SSA made a mistake.

You might consider hiring a representative if you are unsure how to gather evidence, if your case is complicated (for example, you have multiple conditions or a work history that is hard to explain), or if you did not win at reconsideration and are planning to request a hearing. Representatives who handle disability cases are called disability advocates or Social Security representatives. Some are lawyers; others are non-lawyer advocates certified by SSA.

Representatives are paid only if you win — they receive a fee from your back pay, capped at 25 percent of the past benefits you receive or $7,200, whichever is less. This means they have no reason to take your case unless they think you have a real chance of winning. Before you hire someone, ask them directly: "Do you think I have a good case for reconsideration, and why?" A representative who is honest will tell you if they think a hearing would be a better use of your time.

You can find representatives through the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (nosscr.org) or by asking your local legal aid office. Legal aid sometimes provides free representation to people with low income.

What happens after you submit your reconsideration request

SSA will send you a notice saying they received your request. This usually arrives within two weeks. The notice will include a case number and the name of the examiner assigned to your case, though you will not be able to contact the examiner directly.

The examiner will review your entire file, including any new evidence you submitted. This process typically takes 2 to 4 months, though it can take longer if SSA needs to request records from your doctors or if they are backlogged. You do not need to do anything during this time except wait.

SSA will mail you a decision letter. If you win, the letter will explain what benefits you are may have access to to and when payments will start. If you lose, the letter will explain the reason and tell you that you have 60 days to request a hearing before an administrative law judge. Keep this letter — you will need it if you appeal further.

What to do if you lose at reconsideration

Losing at reconsideration is not the end. You can request a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ), which is the next stage of appeal. Hearings have a much higher approval rate than reconsiderations — roughly 40 to 50 percent of people win at a hearing.

At a hearing, you can present evidence in person, answer questions from the judge, and have a representative speak on your behalf. The judge may also call a medical informed or vocational informed to testify about whether you can work. This is a real opportunity to explain your case to someone who has the power to approve your claim.

You have 60 days from your reconsideration denial letter to request a hearing. Use the same form (SSA-561-U2) or write a letter. Many people hire a representative for the hearing stage because the process is more formal and the stakes are higher. If you lost at reconsideration, a representative can often tell you what went wrong and what new evidence might help at the hearing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request a reconsideration if I missed the 60-day important date?

You can ask SSA to extend the important date if you have a good reason for the delay — for example, you were hospitalized or did not receive the denial letter. Write to SSA explaining why you missed the important date and ask them to reopen your case. If they say no, you can still request a hearing, which is the next appeal stage.

Do I have to submit new evidence to win at reconsideration?

You do not have to, but it is your best chance. If you submit only the same documents SSA already reviewed, the second examiner will likely reach the same conclusion as the first. New medical records, test results, or statements from your doctors give the examiner a reason to change the decision.

What if my doctor will not write a statement for me?

Ask your doctor's office in writing, and explain that you are appealing a disability denial. If they still refuse, submit whatever medical records you have — office notes, test results, and treatment history. These documents alone can sometimes persuade the examiner, especially if they show your condition is serious or long-lasting.

How long does reconsideration take?

Most reconsiderations take 2 to 4 months from the date you submit your request to the date SSA mails you a decision. The timeline varies by region and how busy your local office is. You can call SSA to ask about the status of your case, but they cannot speed up the process.

Can I work while my reconsideration is pending?

Yes. Working does not hurt your reconsideration case. However, if you earn more than the monthly limit for substantial gainful activity (which changes each year), SSA may use that as a reason to deny your claim. Ask your representative or local SSA office what the current limit is if you are thinking about working.