Why Most People Don’t Appeal a Denied Disability Claim—And Why That’s a Costly Mistake

May 19, 2025

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Every year, thousands of people in Alabama and across the country apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), only to be met with an all-too-common response: denied.


For many, that’s where the process ends. They pack up their paperwork, assume the government was right, and try to move on—often while still unable to work and struggling financially. But what most don’t realize is this: denial is not the end of the road—it’s just the beginning of the most important step: the appeal.


And the truth is, not appealing is one of the biggest mistakes you can make if you’re truly unable to work and need those benefits.


Let’s break down why so many people give up after a denial, what that decision is really costing them, and why filing an appeal—with the help of an experienced attorney like Brian Smith at GetMyALDisability.com—could make all the difference.




Reason #1: People Think a Denial Means They Don’t Qualify


One of the biggest misconceptions people have is that if Social Security denied their application, it must mean they don’t meet the requirements. But this simply isn’t true.


Most initial applications are denied—not because the person doesn’t qualify, but because the application wasn’t detailed enough, didn’t include strong medical evidence, or lacked proper legal framing.


The denial rate for initial applications is around 70%. That means 7 out of 10 people get denied, regardless of whether they actually deserve benefits. But here’s the kicker: the majority of those who appeal—especially with a lawyer—eventually win.


👉 Moral of the story: A denial is not a verdict. It’s a challenge to be answered—with the right help.




Reason #2: The Appeals Process Seems Confusing or Overwhelming


Let’s be honest: the Social Security system isn’t user-friendly. It’s filled with unfamiliar forms, deadlines, medical jargon, and legal terms. If you’re already dealing with health issues, limited mobility, and daily stress, taking on a legal battle can feel like too much.


So people don’t. They freeze. They forget. Or they simply put it off until it’s too late to appeal.


But here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it alone.


When you work with an experienced disability attorney, like Brian Smith at GetMyALDisability.com, you don’t have to worry about the paperwork or process. He handles it for you—start to finish. You don’t even have to leave your home. Most of the process can be handled remotely, by phone or online.


And here’s something even more important…




Reason #3: People Think They Can’t Afford a Lawyer


It’s one of the top reasons people don’t fight their denial—they think hiring a lawyer will be expensive.


But disability attorneys don’t charge you anything up front. You only pay if you win your case—and then only a small portion of your past-due benefits (capped by law). That means:


  • No money out of pocket
  • No hourly legal fees
  • No payment unless you win


👉 So what do you have to lose by getting help with your appeal? Absolutely nothing.




Reason #4: People Don’t Know the Appeal Deadline Is Ticking


If you get denied, you typically have only 60 days to file an appeal. Many people set the letter aside, unsure of what to do. Before they realize it, the time limit has passed—and their case is dead in the water.


At that point, their only option is to start over from scratch, which can delay benefits for months or even years.


That’s why acting fast is critical. If you’ve been denied, the best move is to reach out to a qualified disability attorney immediately. At GetMyALDisability.com, you can contact attorney Brian Smith the same day and start your appeal process without delay.




Reason #5: People Think They Can Win on Their Own


Some folks believe they don’t need help. They think their medical condition is obvious enough to get approved on appeal if they just try harder. While that confidence is admirable, statistics tell a different story.


According to data from the Social Security Administration:


  • Applicants without legal representation win less than 30% of their appeals.
  • Applicants with an experienced disability attorney win more than 60%—often much more, depending on the judge and hearing office.


In other words, your odds more than double with a good lawyer.


Why? Because disability attorneys know how to:


  • Build strong medical arguments
  • Gather the right records and expert opinions
  • Spot weaknesses in your original application
  • Communicate clearly with the SSA and judges
  • Represent you at hearings and prepare you beforehand


They know what the SSA is looking for—and how to give it to them.




What Happens If You Don’t Appeal?


If you don’t appeal, you could be walking away from thousands of dollars in monthly benefits, access to Medicare or Medicaid, and the financial security you deserve.


SSDI and SSI benefits can provide:


  • Monthly income to cover basic needs
  • Health coverage for treatments, medication, and doctor visits
  • Potential back pay for months (or years) of missed benefits
  • Long-term security for you and your family


Why give that up when you still have a chance to win?




How an Attorney Like Brian Smith Helps You Win


Brian Smith isn’t just any attorney—he’s a 20+ year Alabama-based disability lawyer who’s helped thousands of people across the state get approved after a denial.


At GetMyALDisability.com, Brian personally works with you on your case to:


✅ File your appeal quickly—before your deadline expires

✅ Gather and organize medical evidence that supports your claim

✅ Write detailed legal arguments that address your denial head-on

✅ Represent you at hearings and handle all SSA communication

✅ Guide you every step of the way—without you ever having to leave home


And remember—you don’t pay a dime unless Brian wins your case.




Real Talk: Don’t Let a Denial Stop You


If you applied for disability and got denied, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of luck. Most people get denied the first time. Most of those denials are appealable. And most appeals, when done right, get approved.


But only if you take action.


So don’t wait. Don’t sit on your denial letter. And don’t assume the system will work itself out.


Take the step that gives you the best chance of success. Contact a trusted, experienced attorney who fights for Alabama residents every day.




Take Action Now – Start Your Appeal with Confidence


If you or someone you love has been denied Social Security Disability (SSDI or SSI) benefits in Alabama, there’s still time to fight—and win.


No money upfront

No leaving your home

Better than 2X chance of approval with legal help

Real support from someone who understands the system


👉 Visit GetMyALDisability.com


📞 Or contact attorney Brian Smith now to start your free case review


📅 Act within 60 days of your denial—or you may lose your right to appeal


You’ve got nothing to lose—and everything to gain.



Need help fast? Call or visit us now at www.GetMyALDisability.com. We’re here to help you win your appeal and get the benefits you deserve.

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