SSDI Appeals Lawyer in Killeen, Texas: What to Do After a Disability Claim Denial

You’ve worked for years, maybe decades. Then, due to a serious medical condition, you're no longer able to work. You apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) hoping it will provide financial relief.

But instead of a lifeline, you receive a denial letter. If this has happened to you in Killeen, Texas, you’re not alone.

Nationwide, around 70% of SSDI applications are denied the first time, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Most denials are not because people don’t qualify—but because they didn’t know how to meet the SSA’s requirements.

If your claim was denied, don’t give up. You still have options, and this guide explains how an SSDI appeals lawyer in Killeen can help.

Common Reasons SSDI Claims Are Denied in Texas

The SSA uses a very specific checklist to decide whether someone qualifies for disability benefits. If your application doesn’t check every box, it may be denied.

Here are the most common reasons:

• Not enough medical evidence: SSA may say there’s no “proof” of your disability or how it limits your ability to work.
• Your disability isn’t expected to last at least 12 months
• You earn too much income: If you’re working and making more than the SSA’s limit, you may be ineligible.
• You didn’t follow treatment plans or missed medical appointments
• Technical errors: Incomplete paperwork or mistakes in your forms

Knowing the reason behind your denial helps shape a stronger appeal.

How the SSDI Appeals Process Works — Step-by-Step

Appealing a denial isn’t just one form—it’s a multi-stage process with tight deadlines. Here’s a breakdown:

Step 1: Reconsideration

You submit a request for a second review. A new SSA examiner evaluates your case. You can submit updated evidence or corrections.

Deadline: You must file within 60 days of receiving your denial notice. Learn how to file here.

Step 2: ALJ Hearing (Administrative Law Judge)

If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing. This is a chance to present your case in front of a judge, either in-person or virtually. Having a lawyer here is vital.

Step 3: Appeals Council

If the judge denies your appeal, you can ask for a review by the SSA’s Appeals Council. They may reverse the decision, uphold it, or send it back for a new hearing.

Step 4: Federal Court Review

Your final option is to file a lawsuit in federal court. This is rare but necessary in complex or unfairly denied cases.

Each step is harder than the last—but with the right support, you can succeed.

Why You Need a Killeen SSDI Appeals Lawyer

Filing an appeal alone is risky. The process is filled with legal and medical terminology, deadlines, and strict rules. A local SSDI lawyer in Killeen can:

• Gather the right medical evidence
• Communicate directly with your doctors
• Build a narrative around your disability that’s persuasive and supported
• Prepare you for hearings and represent you in front of a judge
• Ensure all forms and deadlines are handled properly

And you won’t pay anything unless you win—most SSDI lawyers, including Louis Law Group, work on contingency.

How Louis Law Group Can Help

At Louis Law Group, we specialize in SSDI appeals and understand the challenges that come with the process. Our team can help you through every step, from reconsideration to Federal Court, and provide personalized legal assistance to ensure your case is presented in the best possible way.

Our Services Include:

• Free consultations: We’ll review your case and help you understand your options.
• Expert legal representation: We know how to build a strong case and fight for your rights.
• Timely filings: We’ll handle all the paperwork and ensure everything is filed on time.
• Compassionate support: We understand the stress that comes with a denied claim, and we are here to make the process easier for you.

FAQs About SSDI Appeals in Killeen

Q: How long does an SSDI appeal take in Killeen?

Initial reconsideration takes about 3–5 months. If you go to a hearing, it can take 8–12 months depending on SSA’s backlog.

Q: Will I need to go to court?

Not usually. The majority of appeals happen through paperwork or administrative hearings. Court is a last resort.

Q: What does an SSDI appeals lawyer cost?

SSDI lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win. The fee is typically capped at 25% of back pay, up to $7,200.

Q: Can I file an appeal myself?

Yes, but having legal support greatly improves your chance of winning, especially at the hearing stage.

Conclusion: Start Your SSDI Appeal with Confidence

A denial from the Social Security Administration doesn’t mean your case is over. For many people in Killeen, Texas, it’s just the beginning of the path to finally getting the support they deserve. With the right guidance, you can build a stronger case and fight back.

Let a trusted law firm like Louis Law Group stand with you through every step of the SSDI appeals process. Don’t wait until it’s too late—your benefits, your future, and your peace of mind are on the line.

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.