SSDI Appeals Lawyer in Houston, Texas: Get Legal Help After a Disability Denial

Imagine applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) because your medical condition makes it impossible to work, only to be denied. It’s more common than you’d think—around 67% of initial SSDI applications are rejected, according to the Social Security Administration.

If you live in Houston, Texas, and have received a denial letter, don’t panic. A denial is not the end of the road. You have the legal right to appeal the decision, and many people who appeal end up winning benefits.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the SSDI appeals process, explain why working with a local SSDI appeals lawyer in Houston can make all the difference, and show you how to give your claim a second chance.

Common Reasons SSDI Claims Are Denied

When the SSA denies your SSDI application, they’re saying they don’t believe you qualify under their strict standards. However, that decision isn’t final. You have four chances to appeal the decision:

• Reconsideration
• Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
• Appeals Council Review
• Federal Court Review

Each step gives you the opportunity to submit new evidence, correct mistakes, and better explain how your disability affects your life and ability to work.

Without appealing, your claim is closed—and you may have to start all over again. That’s why understanding your rights and next steps is so important.

Knowing why your claim was denied can help you fix the issue during the appeal. Here are some of the most common reasons:

• Not enough medical documentation: The SSA couldn’t clearly see how your condition limits your ability to work.
• You’re still working too much: Earning above a certain limit (called Substantial Gainful Activity) makes you ineligible.
• Short-term condition: SSDI is for long-term disabilities (lasting at least a year or expected to result in death).
• Failure to follow prescribed treatment: If you're not following your doctor’s advice, the SSA might assume your condition isn’t severe.
• Incomplete application: Missing forms or inconsistent details can lead to a denial.

Tip: Check your denial letter—it will tell you exactly why your application was rejected.

The 4-Step SSDI Appeals Process Explained

Here’s a simple breakdown of the SSDI appeals process and how each step works:

Step 1: Reconsideration

Submit a Request for Reconsideration within 60 days of your denial. A different SSA examiner will review your application. You can submit new documents and medical records at this stage.

Step 2: ALJ Hearing

If reconsideration is denied, request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge. This is your chance to speak directly to someone who can reverse the decision. You can also bring witnesses or experts to support your claim.

Step 3: Appeals Council Review

If the judge also denies your claim, you can ask the SSA Appeals Council to look at your case. They can uphold, reverse, or send it back for another hearing.

Step 4: Federal Court

If the Appeals Council denies you or refuses to review your case, your final option is to file a lawsuit in federal court. This stage usually requires a lawyer.

Important Note: You only have 60 days after each denial to appeal. Don’t miss these deadlines.

Why You Need an SSDI Appeals Lawyer in Houston

• Filing an SSDI appeal is not just filling out forms. It involves gathering strong evidence, making legal arguments, and presenting your case clearly.

A qualified SSDI appeals lawyer in Houston can help by:

• Reviewing your denial and identifying what went wrong
• Helping gather complete medical records and evidence
• Writing legal arguments that speak the SSA’s language
• Representing you at the hearing so you’re not alone
• Navigating the complex federal system if needed

Local lawyers understand the Houston SSA offices, administrative judges, and even the court system. That knowledge can give you a real advantage.

How Louis Law Group Supports Clients Through Appeals

At Louis Law Group we help people in Houston and across Texas appeal unfair SSDI denials. With years of experience handling SSDI appeals, we know how to present your case the right way—from the first review to a federal court hearing.

Here’s how we can support you:

• Free consultations to help you understand your denial
• Direct help collecting and organizing medical documents
• Personal legal representation during hearings
• We only get paid if you win—so there’s no risk to you

SSDI appeals can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make the process easier, clearer, and more effective. If you’re looking for experienced, compassionate help, Louis Law Group is ready to stand with you.

FAQs About SSDI Appeals in Houston

Q: Can I file an appeal online?

A: Yes. You can file a reconsideration or hearing request through the SSA’s online portal.

Q: How long do SSDI appeals take?

A: It depends. Reconsideration takes 2–3 months, while ALJ hearings can take up to 12 months depending on backlogs.

Q: Do I need a lawyer to appeal?

A: You’re not required to, but having a lawyer increases your chance of success—especially at the hearing level or beyond.

Q: Can I work while appealing?

A: Yes, but your income must be below SSA’s Substantial Gainful Activity limit—otherwise, your appeal could be denied.

Q: How much does an SSDI lawyer cost?

A: Most SSDI lawyers (including us at Louis Law Group) work on contingency, meaning they only get paid if you win.

Conclusion: You Deserve a Fair Shot—Don’t Give Up

Being denied SSDI in Houston, Texas, doesn’t mean your case is over. With the right knowledge, documentation, and legal help, you can successfully appeal and win the benefits you deserve. The appeals process takes time and effort, but it’s worth it—and you don’t have to do it alone.

At Louis Law Group, we’re here to guide you through every step. We’ve helped countless Texans get back on track after a denial, and we’re ready to help you too.

Contact Louis Law Group today for a free consultation. Call 833-657-4812 or submit a free case evaluation form to get started. Don’t wait—let us help you take the first step toward justice and financial recovery.