Finding out that your disability claim was denied can knock the wind out of you. After waiting months, you deserve an answer that feels fair. The good news is that a denial is not final. Many people in Georgia win their benefits later, once the Social Security Administration takes a closer look.

Why Many Claims Get Denied

In Georgia, fewer than four in ten first-time applications are approved. Denials may happen because key details are missing. Maybe your doctor’s notes were too brief, or your test results never made it into the file. Some forms arrive late, or income numbers don’t match what Social Security expects. When you appeal, you can fill those gaps. Bring in updated medical records, describe how your condition affects daily life, and keep copies of every letter you send. These small steps often make a big difference.

The Four Stages of Appeal

Reconsideration

Another reviewer, not the one who handled your first claim, looks at everything again. This is your chance to send new evidence, like a recent MRI report or a specialist’s opinion. In Georgia, roughly one in five appeals is approved at the reconsideration stage.

Administrative Law Judge Hearing

If reconsideration fails, you can ask for a hearing. It’s more like a serious conversation than a courtroom trial. You’ll talk directly with a judge who reviews your records and asks about your work history and health. Georgia’s hearings take about six to seven months to schedule.

Appeals Council Review

If the judge denies your claim, you can ask the Appeals Council to check whether the decision followed the rules. They might agree, send it back for another hearing, or rarely, approve it themselves.

Federal Court Review

This final stage takes the case out of Social Security’s system and into federal court. It’s a long process, but still an option when everything else fails.

Building a Stronger Case

Collect recent medical updates, keep a list of treatments, and ask your doctor to note how your symptoms affect basic tasks like standing or concentrating. Make sure your Social Security file includes every page. Double-check dates and signatures. Accuracy counts.

Getting Help That Makes a Difference

Working through an appeal alone can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. A disability attorney deals with those puzzles every day. They know which forms matter, how to prepare for a hearing, and what evidence judges pay attention to. Most charge nothing up front and are paid only if your case succeeds.

The team at Wilkinson & Magruder understands how Georgia offices handle these appeals and helps clients avoid the small mistakes that slow things down. Their familiarity with local judges and hearing offices also means they know what details can tip a case in your favor, whether that’s medical timing, prior work history, or how evidence is presented in person.

Take the Next Step

Appeals must be filed within 60 days. Waiting too long can close your case. If your claim was denied, reach out to Wilkinson & Magruder in Augusta for advice. With the right help and persistence, your appeal can move from frustration to success.