The reality is that most applications for Social Security disability benefits - over 60% of claims - are denied by the government. The Social Security Administration receives an overwhelming number of applications each year and it has become increasingly difficult to obtain disability benefits, even if you have a valid claim.

If your Social Security disability claim is denied, there are still steps you can take to appeal the decision. You must request an appeal in writing within 60 days from the date you received the denial letter.

There are four stages of appeal:

• Reconsideration
• Hearing by an administrative law judge
• Review by the Appeals Council
• Federal court

Reconsideration means that your application will be reviewed again by someone who was not involved in the initial decision. During this stage, you may present additional evidence to further your case.

If the reconsideration decision is unsatisfactory, your next option is to request a hearing with an administrative law judge. The judge will review your claim and may ask you to provide more evidence about your claim. You may also bring witnesses such as medical experts. Afterward, the judge will make a decision about your claim.

If you wish to appeal the hearing decision, you can request to have the Social Security's Appeals Council review your claim. If the Council decides to review your claim, it will make a decision or return the matter to the administrative law judge. However, the Council may also decline to review your claim if it agrees with the prior decision.

After all of these options are exhausted, the last course of action is to file a lawsuit in federal court.

Unfortunately, most claims for Social Security benefits are denied by the government. What's more, the appeals process is arduous and complicated, and it is easy to make errors or miss deadlines - which can cost you valuable time and money. Having a knowledgeable Social Security attorney guide you through the appeals process can dramatically increase your chances of having your claim approved. The attorneys at Anidjar & Levine can give you valuable advice about the next steps you should take and help make the difficult appeals process much more manageable. We have years of experience representing clients throughout the state of Florida and are committed to fighting for the benefits you deserve.

If your claim for Social Security was denied, call Anidjar & Levine, P.A. at (800) 747-FREE or submit our online "Contact Us" form to schedule a free consultation with an experienced South Florida Social Security attorney.