Can you appeal a disability decision in Kansas?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 04/14/2025
If you’ve been denied disability benefits in Kansas, you’re not alone — and importantly, you do have the right to appeal. Denials happen often, but many claims succeed during the appeals process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to appeal a Social Security Disability decision in Kansas and improve your chances of approval.
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Understanding Disability Denials in Kansas
Most initial applications for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are denied, even when applicants have valid claims.
Common reasons for denial include:
- Lack of sufficient medical evidence
- Income or resource limits (SSI)
- Not meeting work credit requirements (SSDI)
- Failure to follow prescribed treatment
No matter the reason, you have multiple opportunities to appeal.
Step 1: Request Reconsideration
Deadline: Within 60 days of receiving your denial notice.
In this stage, someone new at the Social Security Administration (SSA) will review your application. Make sure to:
- Submit additional medical evidence.
- Clarify any errors or missing information from your initial claim.
Tip: Many denials are overturned at this stage with stronger documentation.
Step 2: Request a Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
If reconsideration is denied, the next step is a hearing.
What to expect:
- Held at an SSA hearing office or via video call.
- You (and your attorney, if you have one) can present your case.
- Medical and vocational experts may testify.
In Kansas, ALJ hearings tend to have higher approval rates than initial applications.
Step 3: Appeals Council Review
If the ALJ denies your claim, you can escalate the case to the Appeals Council. They will:
- Review the ALJ’s decision.
- Decide to uphold, reverse, or remand (send it back) for a new hearing.
This step is more complex, so legal assistance is highly recommended.
Step 4: Federal Court Review
As a final option, you can file a lawsuit in federal district court. This is a legal proceeding and requires an attorney.
Why Legal Help Matters in Kansas Disability Appeals
Having an experienced Kansas disability attorney can greatly improve your odds. They can:
- Collect and submit crucial medical evidence
- Prepare you for hearings
- Cross-examine witnesses and challenge unfavorable testimony
Most disability attorneys work on
contingency, meaning you only pay if you win your case.
Quick Tips for Appealing a Disability Decision in Kansas
- Act fast: You have strict deadlines at every stage.
- Stay organized: Keep all correspondence and medical records.
- Build strong medical evidence: Regular doctor visits and detailed records are key.
- Consider legal representation: Expert help can make a difference.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Don’t navigate the system alone. At Kansas Disability Advocates, we specialize in helping Kansans fight for the benefits they deserve. We handle everything from reconsideration to federal appeals — and you pay nothing unless we win.
- Free consultation
- Local Kansas experts
- No upfront costs
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Take the next step in your appeal journey. Call us or schedule your free consultation and let’s work together to turn your denial into an approval!
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