What to Do If Your SSDI or SSI Claim Is Denied in Sacramento

 

 

What to Do If Your SSDI or SSI Claim Is Denied in Sacramento

Receiving a denial letter for your Social Security Disability claim can be devastating, especially when you're already struggling with a disabling condition. In Sacramento, California, initial denials are unfortunately common—but they're not the end of the road. About 65-70% of initial applications are denied nationwide and in California, but many are approved on appeal with the right steps.

 

Sacramento Skyline with California Capitol Building at Sunset

This guide explains what to do if your SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) or SSI (Supplemental Security Income) claim is denied in Sacramento, including appeal deadlines, levels of appeal, common denial reasons, and local tips to improve your chances.

Why Claims Are Denied in Sacramento (And How to Avoid Pitfalls)

The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies claims for various reasons, many of which are technical or fixable on appeal. Common reasons include:

  • Insufficient medical evidence
  • Not following prescribed treatment
  • Earnings above Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) levels
  • The condition not meeting SSA's severity requirements
  • Technical issues (like excess resources for SSI)

In California, denials often stem from incomplete records or misunderstandings of how conditions affect work.

How to Obtain Your Medical Records for Social Security Benefits

 

Reviewing your denial letter carefully is the first step— it explains the specific reasons for your case.

Don't take it personally; the system is rigorous by design.

The Appeals Process: Step-by-Step in California

You have 60 days from the date on the denial letter (plus 5 days for mailing) to appeal. Missing this deadline means starting over with a new application.

There are four levels of appeal:

  1. Reconsideration – A fresh review by a different examiner.
  2. Hearing – Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
  3. Appeals Council Review
  4. Federal Court

Most Sacramento claimants win at the hearing level.

sacramento SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

 

The Social Security office in Sacramento where many appeals begin—appointments are now required for in-person help.

Level 1: Request Reconsideration

  • File online at ssa.gov, by phone (1-800-772-1213), or in person at a Sacramento SSA office.
  • Submit new evidence, like updated medical records from local providers (e.g., UC Davis Health, Sutter Medical Center).
  • In California, reconsideration approval rates are low (~10-15%), but it's a required step.

Local Tip: Sacramento DDS (Disability Determination Services) handles reconsiderations—providing stronger evidence here can help.

Level 2: Request a Hearing Before an ALJ (The Most Important Step)

If reconsideration is denied, request a hearing within 60 days.

  • Wait times in California can be 12-18 months, but backlogs vary.
  • Hearings are now often by phone or video, but in-person options exist at the Sacramento Hearing Office.

Social Security Attorneys Sacramento Top 5 Trusted Experts

 

Preparing for your disability hearing with professional help can dramatically increase approval odds.

This is your best chance: National approval rates at hearings are around 50%, higher with representation.

Prepare by:

  • Gathering new medical evidence
  • Getting statements from doctors (Residual Functional Capacity forms)
  • Practicing testimony on how your condition limits daily life and work

Sacramento ALJs consider local vocational factors and common California impairments like musculoskeletal issues or mental health conditions.

Levels 3 and 4: Appeals Council and Federal Court

If the ALJ denies, appeal to the Appeals Council (low success rate), then federal court if needed. These are rarer but possible with strong cases.

Tips for a Successful Appeal in Sacramento

  • Act Fast: Always meet the 60-day deadline.
  • Get More Evidence: Update records from Sacramento-area doctors and specialists.
  • Consider Representation: A local Social Security Disability attorney can submit evidence, prepare you for the hearing, and argue your case. They only get paid if you win (typically 25% of backpay, capped).

Master the Art of Organizing Medical Records for Your VA Claim

 

Organized medical records are key to overturning a denial on appeal.

Studies show represented claimants are far more likely to win.

Local Resources:

  • Sacramento SSA Offices: Locations include 8581 Folsom Blvd, 2424 Arden Way (North Sacramento), and 40 Massie Ct (South Sacramento). Appointments required as of 2025.
  • Free or low-cost help: Legal Services of Northern California or disability advocacy groups.

Social Security Disability- Step 1 Substantial Gainful Activity

 

A step-by-step checklist for your appeal can keep you organized during this stressful time.

Don't Give Up—Many Sacramento Residents Win on Appeal

Persistence pays off. Thousands in Sacramento and California secure benefits after initial denials each year.

If your SSDI or SSI claim was denied in Sacramento, professional guidance can make all the difference.

At Disability Sacramento, our experienced attorneys specialize in appeals, hearings, and winning denied claims for local residents. We offer free consultations and work on contingency—no fees unless we win.

Contact us today at disabilitysacramento.com for help turning your denial into an approval.

Disability Sacramento | Helping Sacramento residents secure the Social Security Disability and Veterans benefits they deserve. disabilitysacramento.com


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