What to expect during reconsideration
A reconsideration is Social Security's first level of appeal after your initial SSDI claim is denied. When you request reconsideration, Social Security sends your case to a different examiner who reviews your medical evidence and work history from the beginning. The entire process typically takes three to six months, though some cases move faster and others take longer depending on how much medical evidence you submit and how busy your local office is.
You do not have to wait passively during this time. You can send new medical records, test results, or letters from doctors to strengthen your case. In fact, submitting additional evidence is one of the most common reasons reconsideration decisions change from denial to approval.
Key Takeaways
- Reconsideration typically takes three to six months from the date Social Security receives your request.
- You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to request reconsideration, or you lose the right to appeal at this level.
- Sending new medical evidence during reconsideration can improve your chances, especially records from the past 12 months.
- Social Security will mail you a decision letter at your address on file, so update your address if you move during the appeal.
- If reconsideration is denied, you have 60 days to request a hearing before an administrative law judge.
The 60-day important date to request reconsideration
The clock starts on the date printed on your denial letter, not the date you receive it. You have exactly 60 days from that date to submit a written request for reconsideration to your local Social Security office. If the 60th day falls on a weekend or holiday, you can submit your request the next business day and still be on time.
If you miss the 60-day window, you cannot request reconsideration. Your only option then is to request a hearing before an administrative law judge, which is the next appeal level. Some people miss this important date by accident because they do not realize the clock is running from the letter date, not when they read it.
To be safe, submit your reconsideration request in writing to your local Social Security office as soon as you decide to appeal. You can mail it, deliver it in person, or fax it. Keep a copy for your records and ask for a receipt showing the date Social Security received it.
Timeline from submission to decision
After you submit your reconsideration request, Social Security assigns the case to a new examiner. This assignment can take one to three weeks depending on how many cases are in the queue at your office. Once assigned, the examiner reviews your entire file—your medical records, work history, age, and education—and may request additional records from your doctors or previous employers.
The examiner then makes a decision and prepares a written explanation. The entire review process usually takes two to four months. Social Security mails the decision letter to the address on file in your account. If you have moved, the letter may be delayed or lost, so update your address with Social Security before your reconsideration decision is due.
Some cases are decided faster—within six to eight weeks—if your medical evidence is clear and complete. Others take longer if the examiner needs to request records from multiple doctors or if your case involves complex medical or vocational issues.
What happens if you submit new medical evidence
New medical evidence can extend the timeline by two to four weeks because the examiner must review it before making a decision. However, submitting strong new evidence—such as recent test results, imaging scans, or detailed letters from your treating doctors—often improves your chances of approval enough to justify the delay.
The best evidence to submit is medical records from the past 12 months that show your condition has worsened or remained severe. Records that are years old are less persuasive. If you have had recent hospitalizations, emergency room visits, or specialist appointments, request those records from the medical provider and send them to Social Security as soon as you can.
You can submit evidence by mail, in person at your local office, or by phone if you call and ask the examiner to note that you are sending records. Always include your Social Security number and claim number on any documents you mail so they are attached to the correct file.
Tracking your reconsideration status
You can call Social Security's main number at 1-800-772-1213 to ask about your reconsideration status. Have your Social Security number ready. The representative can tell you whether a decision has been made and, if not, approximately how long the review is expected to take. You can also visit your local Social Security office in person to ask about your case.
Social Security does not send status updates by email or text message. The only official notice you will receive is the decision letter, which arrives by mail. If you have not received a decision after six months, call to confirm that your case is still being reviewed and that Social Security has your correct mailing address.
What the decision letter will say
The decision letter explains whether Social Security approved or denied your reconsideration request. If approved, the letter states the date your benefits begin and how much you will receive each month. If denied, the letter explains the reason—usually that Social Security found insufficient medical evidence that your condition prevents you from working.
The letter also tells you what to do next. If denied, you have the right to request a hearing before an administrative law judge. The letter includes instructions for requesting a hearing and the 60-day important date to do so. Read the entire letter carefully, because it contains important information about your next steps and your rights.
Keep the decision letter in a safe place. You will need it if you request a hearing or if you later need to prove the date of your appeal.
What to do while you wait
While reconsideration is pending, continue to see your doctors and follow their treatment recommendations. Medical records showing ongoing treatment are important evidence that your condition is real and serious. If you start a new medication, have surgery, or receive a new diagnosis, ask your doctor to document it in your medical record.
If your condition changes—either improves or worsens significantly—tell Social Security. You can call or visit your local office to report the change. Do not assume that Social Security already knows about changes in your health or work status.
Do not start working or increase your work hours during reconsideration. If you earn more than $1,550 per month (the 2024 limit, which changes yearly), Social Security may view this as evidence that you can work and may deny your appeal based on that.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request reconsideration by phone or online?
No. You must submit a written request for reconsideration to your local Social Security office by mail, in person, or by fax. You cannot request reconsideration through Social Security's website or by calling the main number. Visit your local office or mail a letter stating that you want to appeal your denial and request reconsideration.
What if I miss the 60-day important date?
If you miss the 60-day important date, you cannot request reconsideration. You can still request a hearing before an administrative law judge, which is the next appeal level. You have 60 days from the date on your reconsideration denial letter to request a hearing, or you can request a hearing directly if you never requested reconsideration.
Will reconsideration cost me anything?
No. Reconsideration is free. Social Security does not charge a fee to review your case. If you hire a lawyer to help with your appeal, the lawyer's fee comes from your back pay if you win, not from your pocket upfront.
Does submitting new evidence may provide approval?
No. New evidence improves your chances, but approval depends on whether Social Security finds that your medical condition prevents you from working. Strong medical evidence from your doctors is more persuasive than your own statement about your condition.
What happens if I move during reconsideration?
Update your address with Social Security when ready. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office to report your new address. If Social Security mails your decision letter to an old address, it may take weeks to reach you or may be lost. Updating your address prevents delays.