If your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim in South Carolina has been denied, you have the right to appeal. Many applicants are initially denied, but understanding the appeal process and acting quickly can improve your chances of approval.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to appeal an SSDI denial in South Carolina.
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1. Review the Denial Notice
Before appealing, carefully read the SSA’s denial letter. It will explain the reasons your claim was denied, such as:
- Insufficient medical evidence
- Not meeting work credit requirements
- Earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit
- Missing or incomplete information
Understanding the reason for denial allows you to focus your appeal on addressing these issues.
2. File a Reconsideration Request
The first step is Reconsideration, where a new SSA examiner reviews your claim.
- Must be requested within 60 days of the denial notice.
- Include new or updated medical evidence that supports your disability.
- Provide statements from doctors or specialists describing how your condition limits work.
You can submit a reconsideration request online, by mail, or at your local SSA office in South Carolina.
3. Request a Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
If reconsideration is denied, the next step is a hearing with an ALJ.
At the hearing, you can:
- Present updated medical records and evidence
- Explain how your disability affects your daily life and work abilities
- Bring witnesses or vocational experts to support your case
ALJ hearings in South Carolina are typically held virtually or in-person at SSA Office of Hearings Operations (OHO) locations, such as Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, and Myrtle Beach.
4. Appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council
If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the Social Security Appeals Council.
The Council checks whether:
- The ALJ followed proper legal procedures
- All relevant evidence was considered appropriately
The Appeals Council can approve your claim, remand it for another hearing, or uphold the ALJ’s decision. You must file this appeal within 60 days of the ALJ decision.
5. File a Federal Court Appeal
If the Appeals Council also denies your claim, your final option is to file a lawsuit in federal court.
- Focuses on whether the SSA followed the law and properly evaluated your evidence
- Federal court appeals are complex and usually require experienced legal representation
6. Tips for a Successful SSDI Appeal in South Carolina
- Keep medical records updated and submit any new evidence promptly
- Provide detailed statements about how your disability limits your work and daily activities
- Meet all deadlines for each stage of the appeal
- Consider professional guidance for hearings or federal appeals
Most approvals happen during the
ALJ hearing stage, so thorough preparation is essential.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we help South Carolina residents:
- Identify the reasons for denial and address them effectively
- Gather and organize strong medical evidence
- Prepare you for ALJ hearings and appeals
- Represent you in reconsideration or federal court appeals
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If your SSDI claim was denied in South Carolina, contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation.
We’ll help you file timely appeals, prepare your evidence, and maximize your chances of approval — so you can focus on your health while we fight for the benefits you deserve.

Appeal your denial with expert guidance and get the SSDI benefits you deserve.
Further Reading
Updated February 10, 2025
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