Disability Reconsideration in Massachusetts

If you’ve applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in Massachusetts and received a denial, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. The first step in appealing that denial is the Disability Reconsideration stage. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about reconsideration in Massachusetts: what it means, how to request it, what to expect, and how to improve your chances of success.

Key Takeaways

Disability Reconsideration is the first formal appeal step after an initial denial of SSDI or SSI benefits.
In Massachusetts, the average processing time for reconsideration decisions is about 90 to 120 days but can vary.
Approval rates at the reconsideration stage are generally low nationwide, but submitting additional medical evidence and detailed work history can improve your chances.
If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), which has a higher approval rate.
Working with an experienced disability attorney or advocate can greatly increase your chance of approval at all appeal levels.

What Is Disability Reconsideration?

Disability Reconsideration is the first level of appeal after the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies your initial application for disability benefits. At this stage, a new team of disability examiners and medical professionals at the Disability Determination Services (DDS) office in Massachusetts will review your case from scratch.

Unlike the initial review, reconsideration involves:

A completely new evaluation of your medical records and residual functional capacity.
A fresh review of your work history and ability to perform past or other work.
Sometimes, additional medical exams or updated records may be requested.

This is your chance to submit new evidence or clarify information that may have been missing or misunderstood in your original application.

How to Request Disability Reconsideration in Massachusetts

Step 1: File Your Request on Time

You must request reconsideration within 60 days of the date on your denial letter. This request can be made:

Online at SSA.gov
By calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213
By visiting your local Massachusetts SSA field office (find one here)
By mailing a written request including your name, Social Security Number, and the date of your denial notice

Step 2: Complete and Submit Necessary Forms

You do not need to fill out a special form to request reconsideration; a written or verbal request is sufficient. However, to support your appeal, you should submit:

Updated Form SSA-3368 (Disability Report)
New or updated medical records from your doctors or hospitals
Form SSA-827 (Authorization to Disclose Information to SSA) if you want SSA to obtain records on your behalf

Step 3: Gather and Submit Additional Evidence

Reconsideration often fails because claimants do not submit new, relevant evidence. Make sure to provide:

Recent treatment notes, test results, or imaging
Statements from your doctors about your limitations
A detailed list of your medications and side effects
Documentation of how your condition affects your daily life and ability to work

What Happens During the Reconsideration Process in Massachusetts?

After SSA receives your reconsideration request, your case is sent to the Massachusetts Disability Determination Services (DDS) office. DDS will assign a different disability examiner and medical consultant to review your file.

Medical Evaluation

DDS may request consultative exams (CEs) if your medical records are incomplete.
They will re-evaluate your condition against the SSA Blue Book Listing of Impairments to see if you meet or equal a listed impairment.
They also assess your residual functional capacity (RFC), determining what physical or mental work activities you can still do.

Vocational Review

A vocational expert or specialist will review your age, education, work history, and RFC.
They determine if you can return to past relevant work or adjust to other work in the national economy.

Decision

You will receive a reconsideration decision letter by mail. This typically takes 3-4 months in Massachusetts, but delays can occur.

Massachusetts Disability Reconsideration Statistics

| Statistic | National Average (%) | Massachusetts Average (%) | Notes |
|——————————————–|———————|————————–|—————————————————-|
| Initial Disability Application Approval | 20-30 | ~25 | Varies by local SSA office and claimant demographics|
| Reconsideration Approval Rate | 10-15 | ~12 | Lower than initial approval rates |
| Average Processing Time for Reconsideration| 90-120 days | ~90 days | Depends on workload and complexity of case |
| Percentage of Cases Moving to ALJ Hearing | 60-70 | ~65 | Most denials at reconsideration proceed to hearing |
| ALJ Hearing Approval Rate | 45-55 | ~50 | Highest approval rate in appeals process |

Data based on SSA annual reports and Massachusetts DDS performance.

Common Reasons for Reconsideration Denial in Massachusetts

Understanding why many reconsideration claims are denied can help you avoid common pitfalls:

Insufficient Medical Evidence: Lack of recent or detailed medical records showing severity and duration of your disability.
Failure to Meet SSA Blue Book Criteria: Your impairment must meet or equal a listed impairment or demonstrate an inability to perform any substantial gainful activity.
Incomplete or Inaccurate Work History: Not showing how your impairments prevent you from performing past or other work.
No New Information Submitted: Reconsideration is a fresh look, but without new evidence, your initial denial is likely to stand.
Mental Health Documentation Gaps: For conditions like depression or anxiety, failure to provide psychological tests or detailed treatment notes.

What to Do If Your Reconsideration Is Denied in Massachusetts

If you receive a denial at reconsideration, your next step is to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is where many claimants ultimately get approved due to:

The opportunity to present testimony in person or via video
Submitting new evidence and witness statements
ALJs having more discretion to weigh evidence and grant benefits

You have 60 days from the date of the reconsideration denial letter to file for a hearing.

Tips to Improve Your Chances at Reconsideration

1. Submit New, Detailed Medical Records: Consult your doctors for updated notes and specific statements about your limitations.
2. Use the SSA Blue Book as a Guide: Review the relevant listing(s) for your condition(s) at SSA Blue Book.
3. Provide a Thorough Work and Daily Activity History: Explain how your impairments limit your ability to work or perform typical daily tasks.
4. Consider Consultative Exams: If SSA requests them, attend promptly and provide honest, detailed answers.
5. Get Help From a Disability Advocate or Attorney: They understand SSA’s rules and can help organize evidence and prepare you for next steps.

Massachusetts-Specific Resources

Massachusetts Disability Determination Services (DDS): The DDS office processes your application and reconsideration. Located in Jamaica Plain, MA.
Social Security Administration Boston Field Office: Provides in-person help and accepts requests.
Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation: Offers free or low-cost legal help to low-income Massachusetts residents.
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission: Provides vocational rehabilitation services that may support your claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does disability reconsideration take in Massachusetts?

Typically, reconsideration decisions take about 90 days, but times can vary based on case complexity and office workload.

2. Can I submit new evidence during reconsideration?

Yes, submitting new and relevant evidence can significantly improve your chances of approval.

3. What if I miss the 60-day deadline to request reconsideration?

Missing the deadline can result in losing your right to appeal. You may request an extension, but it is rarely granted without a valid reason.

4. Do I need a lawyer for reconsideration?

You do not need a lawyer, but having an experienced disability attorney or advocate can increase your chances of success by ensuring all evidence is properly submitted and your case is well-presented.

5. What happens if I am denied at reconsideration?

You can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, which generally has higher approval rates than reconsideration.

Final Thoughts: Get the Help You Deserve

Navigating the disability reconsideration process in Massachusetts can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with serious health issues. The key to success is acting quickly, submitting thorough new evidence, and understanding your rights.

If you find yourself stuck or unsure, consulting a qualified disability attorney or benefits consultant is one of the best steps you can take. They can guide you through the complex SSA rules, help you collect the necessary documentation, and represent your interests at every appeal stage.

Remember, you don’t have to face this challenge alone.

Written by Michael T. Hargrove, former SSA Claims Examiner and Disability Benefits Consultant.

About the Author: Michael Hargrove is a former Social Security Administration claims examiner with over 15 years of experience processing SSDI and SSI applications. He holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is a Certified Benefits Counselor (CBC). Michael now helps disability applicants understand the SSA system and navigate the claims process.

This guide covers Social Security Disability benefits in Massachusetts. For personalized advice, consult a licensed disability attorney in your state.