If you applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits and received a denial, you are not alone—and your options are not over. The first step in the Social Security disability appeals process is called reconsideration. This guide will walk you through exactly what disability reconsideration means in Kansas, what to expect, how to prepare, and how to maximize your chances of approval.
I understand how overwhelming it is to face a denial when your health and financial security are on the line. My goal is to give you clear, practical, and state-specific information so you feel empowered to take the next steps with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Disability reconsideration is the first formal appeal step after an initial denial of your SSDI or SSI claim.
- In Kansas, reconsideration decisions typically take 3 to 5 months but wait times can vary.
- Around 10-15% of reconsideration claims are approved, so detailed evidence and medical records are critical.
- If denied again at reconsideration, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), which has a higher approval rate.
- Consulting a Kansas-based disability attorney or advocate can greatly improve your chances and reduce stress.
What Is Disability Reconsideration?
When you apply for Social Security disability benefits and SSA denies your claim, you have 60 days to file an appeal. The first appeal is called reconsideration. This is a complete review of your application and medical evidence by a different Disability Determination Services (DDS) examiner than the one who handled your initial claim.
What Happens During Reconsideration?
- Your case is assigned to a new examiner at the DDS office serving Kansas (located in Lenexa).
- The examiner reviews all the medical records and evidence you submitted with your original claim.
- The examiner may request additional medical records or ask you to attend a consultative exam.
- The examiner applies the Social Security Blue Book listings and SSA’s rules to decide if your impairment(s) meet or equal a listing or prevent you from doing any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
- You receive a written decision explaining the outcome.
Reconsideration is not a new application, but a thorough second look at the evidence you already provided plus any new evidence you submit with your appeal.
How to Request Reconsideration in Kansas
Step 1: File Your Reconsideration Request Within 60 Days
You can file for reconsideration online on SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Kansas Social Security office. Be sure to file within 60 days of your denial letter, or you risk losing your appeal rights.
Step 2: Submit Additional Medical Evidence
If you have new medical records or updated doctor’s notes, submit these immediately. SSA uses Form SSA-561-U2, your Disability Hearing Request and Evidence Submission Form, to collect new evidence for reconsideration.
Step 3: Attend Consultative Exams If Requested
The DDS examiner may require you to attend a consultative medical exam at a clinic or hospital in Kansas. These exams are typically at no cost to you and provide updated medical information for your claim.
What to Expect: Timelines and Wait Times in Kansas
Disability reconsideration processing times differ by state and workload. For Kansas claimants:
| Step | Typical Duration | Notes |
|—————————|————————|—————————————-|
| Initial Claim Decision | 3-5 months | Varies by DDS office workload |
| Reconsideration Decision | 3-5 months | Lenexa DDS office handles Kansas claims|
| Hearing Request Wait Time | 12-18 months | If denied at reconsideration, next step|
| Average Approval Rate | 10-15% at reconsideration | Lower than initial approval rate |
Source: Social Security Administration, Kansas DDS office reports, 2023
Understanding the Kansas DDS Office Role
The Disability Determination Services (DDS) office in Lenexa, Kansas, reviews all disability claims filed by Kansas residents. This state DDS office follows all federal SSA rules but also considers local medical providers and Kansas-specific health resources.
When your claim goes to reconsideration, this office assigns a new examiner who will:
- Review your medical evidence in detail
- Communicate with your healthcare providers in Kansas for clarification
- Request additional evidence or exams if needed
- Make an impartial decision on your claim
Common Reasons for Denial at Reconsideration
Understanding why reconsideration claims are denied can help you avoid the same mistakes:
- Insufficient Medical Evidence: Your records do not clearly show disability severity or duration.
- Failure to Meet Blue Book Listings: Your impairment does not meet or equal SSA’s Listing of Impairments criteria.
- Ability to Perform Past Work or Other Work: DDS believes you can still do your previous job or other jobs available in Kansas or nationally.
- Gaps in Treatment: Lack of consistent medical care or missing test results.
- Non-Medical Issues: Problems with your work history, earnings, or SSA paperwork.
How to Improve Your Chances of Approval at Reconsideration
1. Submit Strong, Recent Medical Evidence
Include updated doctor’s notes, hospital records, test results, and treatment history. Kansas healthcare providers familiar with your condition should provide detailed opinions on your limitations.
2. Use the SSA Blue Book to Match Your Impairment
The Blue Book lists qualifying impairments by body system with strict criteria. If your condition matches a listing, your claim is more likely to be approved.
3. Provide Function Reports
Explain how your condition limits your daily activities, ability to work, and perform self-care. These statements can come from you, family members, or caregivers.
4. Follow Through With Consultative Exams
Attend all scheduled exams and be honest with examiners. These reports are important evidence.
5. Keep Organized Records
Track all medical visits, medications, and treatments. Submit everything relevant with your appeal.
What Happens if Reconsideration Is Denied?
If the DDS in Kansas denies your claim at reconsideration, your next step is to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This step typically has higher approval rates because you can present your case in person, submit new evidence, and have legal representation.
Requesting an ALJ Hearing
- You must file your hearing request within 60 days of the reconsideration denial.
- The Kansas hearing office is located in Kansas City, Missouri, which serves Kansas residents.
- Wait times for ALJ hearings have been long, averaging 12 to 18 months, though this varies.
How a Kansas Disability Attorney Can Help
Navigating reconsideration and the appeals process is complex and emotionally draining. A Kansas-based disability lawyer or accredited representative can:
- Help gather and present strong medical evidence
- Guide you through SSA forms like SSA-16 (Application for Disability), SSA-3368 (Function Report), and SSA-827 (Authorization to Release Medical Records)
- Prepare you for consultative exams and hearings
- Submit appeals on time and follow up with the DDS office
- Increase your chance of approval and reduce errors or delays
Summary Table: Social Security Disability Appeal Steps in Kansas
| Appeal Step | Description | Timeline | Approval Rate (Kansas) | Key Action |
|————————-|———————————————–|———————|——————————-|———————————-|
| Initial Application | Your first claim for SSDI/SSI benefits | 3-5 months | ~30-40% | Submit complete medical evidence |
| Reconsideration | First formal appeal after denial | 3-5 months | 10-15% | Submit new evidence, attend exams|
| ALJ Hearing | In-person hearing before judge if reconsideration denied | 12-18 months wait | 40-50% | Prepare testimony, legal help |
| Appeals Council Review | Review after ALJ denial | 6-9 months | ~10% | File detailed objection |
| Federal Court Review | Last resort, lawsuit in federal court | 1-2 years | 5-10% | Hire attorney/lawyer |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long will it take to get a decision on my reconsideration in Kansas?
Decisions usually take about 3 to 5 months but can be longer depending on the DDS workload and whether additional evidence or exams are needed.
2. What if I miss the 60-day deadline to file for reconsideration?
Missing the deadline usually means you lose your right to appeal that denial, but in some cases, you may request an extension for good cause. Contact a Kansas disability attorney immediately.
3. Can I submit new medical evidence at reconsideration?
Yes. Submitting new and updated medical evidence is critical to improving your chances. Always provide detailed records and statements from your Kansas healthcare providers.
4. What if I disagree with the reconsideration decision?
You can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. This is your next appeal step and often provides a better chance of approval.
5. Do I need a lawyer for reconsideration?
While not required, having a lawyer or accredited representative familiar with Kansas disability law and SSA procedures greatly improves your odds and helps reduce stress.
Final Thoughts
Facing a denial on your disability claim can feel like the end of the road, but reconsideration is your opportunity to have your case reexamined fairly. Understanding the process, submitting strong evidence, and knowing the Kansas-specific procedures can make all the difference.
If you are uncertain or overwhelmed, I strongly encourage you to consult a qualified Kansas disability attorney. They can help you navigate the complex appeals system, gather the right evidence, and present your case effectively.
Your health and financial security matter. Don’t go it alone—get the support you deserve.
Written by Michael T. Hargrove, former SSA Claims Examiner and Disability Benefits Consultant.