# How do I appeal an SSDI denial?

The SSA provides four levels of appeal. Each has a 60-day filing deadline from receipt of the prior decision. Deadlines are strict — missing them usually means starting a new application and losing back pay.

**Direct answer:** To appeal an SSDI denial, file a Request for Reconsideration on SSA Form SSA-561 within 60 days of the denial; if reconsideration is denied, request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.

## Step 1 — Reconsideration
File Form SSA-561 within 60 days.

   
## Step 2 — ALJ hearing
If reconsideration is denied, request a [hearing before an Administrative Law Judge](/answers/what-happens-at-an-ssdi-hearing).

   
## Step 3 — Appeals Council
Request review by the SSA Appeals Council.

   
## Step 4 — Federal court
File a civil action in U.S. District Court.

## Sources
- SSA — The Appeals Process — https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/appeal.html

## Related questions
- [What happens at an SSDI hearing?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-happens-at-an-ssdi-hearing)
- [Why was my SSDI denied?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/why-was-my-ssdi-denied)
- [Do I need a lawyer for SSDI?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/do-i-need-a-lawyer-for-ssdi)
## Topics
- SSDI Appeals — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/appeals
- ALJ Hearing — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-happens-at-an-ssdi-hearing
- SSDI Lawyer — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/do-i-need-a-lawyer-for-ssdi

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Disclaimer: SSDI Direct Answers is a private informational website. It is not affiliated with the Social Security Administration or any government agency. Informational only — not legal, medical, or financial advice. For official information visit ssa.gov.