If you’ve applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in Missouri and received a denial, you’re not alone—and you still have options. The first step in the appeals process is called reconsideration. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about disability reconsideration in Missouri, from timelines and procedures to key statistics and tips for success.
Key Takeaways
- Reconsideration is the first formal appeal after an initial denial of your Social Security disability claim.
- Missouri’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) office handles medical reviews during reconsideration; processing times can vary but often take 90 to 180 days.
- The reconsideration approval rate in Missouri is generally low (around 10–15%), so thorough preparation is critical.
- You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to request reconsideration; missing this deadline can jeopardize your appeal.
- If reconsideration is denied, you can escalate your appeal to a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
What is Disability Reconsideration?
Disability reconsideration is the first step in the Social Security Disability appeals process. If your initial application for SSDI or SSI benefits is denied, you have the right to ask SSA to take a second look—this is called filing a Request for Reconsideration.
During reconsideration, a different team at the Disability Determination Services (DDS) office in Missouri will review your claim, including your medical evidence and work history, to determine if you qualify for benefits. Unlike the initial decision, reconsideration is done by new evaluators who had no part in your original determination.
Why Reconsideration Matters
Over 65% of all initial disability claims are denied, often because the claimant did not submit enough medical evidence or the condition did not clearly meet SSA’s criteria at first glance. Reconsideration gives you a second chance to:
- Submit additional medical records or evidence.
- Clarify inconsistencies or gaps in your application.
- Obtain a fresh, unbiased review of your case.
How to Request Disability Reconsideration in Missouri
Step 1: Know Your Deadline
You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to request reconsideration. The date is clearly printed on the letter you receive from SSA. If you miss this deadline, your claim will be closed unless you have a valid reason for the delay.
Step 2: Submit Your Request
You can request reconsideration in the following ways:
- Online: Visit SSA.gov/benefits/disability/appeal and follow the instructions to file an appeal online.
- By mail: Fill out and mail Form SSA-561, Request for Reconsideration.
- In person: Visit your local Social Security office in Missouri. You can use the SSA office locator on SSA.gov to find the nearest location.
- By phone: Call the SSA national toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213.
Step 3: Gather and Submit Additional Evidence
If you have new medical records, doctor’s notes, test results, or statements from family or employers that support your disability claim, gather these to submit with your reconsideration request. Keep in mind:
- The reconsideration team will not automatically collect new evidence for you.
- Updated evidence that shows your condition has worsened or new diagnoses can improve your chances.
- You may also submit a written statement explaining why you believe the initial decision was incorrect.
What Happens During Missouri DDS Reconsideration?
The Missouri Disability Determination Services office is responsible for medical evaluations during reconsideration. Here’s what to expect:
Medical Review
- A new disability examiner and medical consultant will review your file.
- They will consider all medical records, including any newly submitted documents.
- The Missouri DDS may contact your doctors or request additional evidence if necessary.
Evaluation Against SSA’s Blue Book Listings
The DDS compares your impairments to the SSA’s Blue Book Listing of Impairments (available at SSA Blue Book) to determine if your condition meets or equals a listed impairment.
Work Capability Assessment
If your condition does not meet a listing, the DDS will assess your residual functional capacity (RFC) to see if you can perform past relevant work or adjust to other work.
Disability Reconsideration Timeline in Missouri
Processing times can vary by DDS office workload and complexity of your case. Here is a general timeline:
| Step | Estimated Timeframe |
|——————————|—————————|
| Request for Reconsideration | Must be filed within 60 days |
| Missouri DDS Review | 90 to 180 days |
| Reconsideration Decision | Typically mailed within 3 to 6 months |
| If Denied, Next Appeal Stage | Request ALJ hearing within 60 days of decision |
Missouri tends to have processing times near the national average, but some applicants experience longer waits due to backlogs.
How Often Are Reconsideration Claims Approved in Missouri?
Approval rates at the reconsideration level tend to be relatively low nationwide, and Missouri is no exception. Based on SSA data and regional trends:
| Appeal Stage | Approximate Approval Rate in Missouri |
|———————|—————————————|
| Initial Application | 25% to 30% |
| Reconsideration | 10% to 15% |
| ALJ Hearing | 45% to 55% |
Because reconsideration approval rates are low, many claimants who are denied at this stage proceed to request an administrative hearing before an ALJ, where approval chances are significantly better.
Tips for Success During Reconsideration in Missouri
1. Submit Complete Medical Records
Make sure your medical records are detailed and up to date. This includes:
- Treatment notes from your primary care doctor and specialists.
- Test results, imaging, and lab reports.
- Statements from your healthcare providers about your functional limitations.
2. Address All Medical Conditions
If you have multiple impairments, ensure the reconsideration team understands the combined effect on your ability to work.
3. Include Personal Statements
A detailed statement explaining how your disability affects your daily life and ability to work can provide valuable context.
4. Follow Up Regularly
Contact your local Missouri SSA office or DDS if you have not received a decision within 4-6 months.
5. Consider Legal Representation
Given the complexity and low approval rates at reconsideration, consulting a disability attorney or experienced benefits consultant can improve your chances.
What If Your Reconsideration Is Denied?
If you are denied at reconsideration, you still have options:
Request an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing
- File your Request for a Hearing within 60 days of the reconsideration denial date.
- ALJ hearings are conducted in person or via video; in Missouri, hearing offices in cities like Kansas City, St. Louis, and Springfield handle these cases.
- ALJs have the authority to overturn prior denials and approve benefits.
Additional Appeal Options
If the ALJ denies your claim, you can appeal to the Appeals Council, and potentially federal court after that, but these steps are more complex and time-consuming.
Missouri-Specific Resources
- Missouri DDS Office Contact:
Disability Determination Services, 3315 Emerald Lane, Jefferson City, MO 65109
Phone: (573) 751-3455
- Local Social Security Offices:
Use SSA’s office locator at https://www.ssa.gov/locator/ to find the nearest office in Missouri.
- Missouri Disability Advocacy Groups:
Groups like the Missouri Disability Rights Center can provide free assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does reconsideration take in Missouri?
Reconsideration decisions typically take between 3 to 6 months, depending on workload and whether additional medical evidence is needed.
2. Can I submit new evidence during reconsideration?
Yes. Submitting new or updated medical records can strengthen your case and potentially improve your chances of approval.
3. Will I get a hearing during reconsideration?
No. Reconsideration is a paper review. If you want a hearing, you must request it after a reconsideration denial.
4. What happens if I miss the 60-day deadline to request reconsideration?
If you miss the deadline, your appeal will likely be dismissed unless you can show a good cause for the delay. It’s critical to act promptly.
5. Should I hire an attorney for reconsideration?
While not required, many people find that having an attorney or experienced disability advocate helps them gather evidence and navigate the process effectively.
Final Thoughts and Next Steps
Disability reconsideration in Missouri is your first and crucial opportunity to challenge an initial denial of benefits. While approval rates at this stage are low, a well-prepared appeal that includes updated medical evidence can improve your odds.
If you feel overwhelmed or unsure how to proceed, consider consulting a disability attorney who understands Missouri’s DDS processes and SSA regulations. An experienced attorney can guide you through the reconsideration and, if necessary, represent you at the ALJ hearing stage, increasing your chances for a successful outcome.
Written by Michael T. Hargrove, former SSA Claims Examiner and Disability Benefits Consultant.