Initial Applications For Minnesota Disability Benefits

Generally speaking, attorneys do not begin representation at the time of the “Initial Application.” There may be certain isolated circumstances where it may be warranted. Your Minnesota Social Security Office will take your “Application for Disability Benefits” in person, by phone or you can complete the application online. The Social Security Administration will order all of your medical records and those records will be reviewed by a Disability Examiner who will make the initial determination. The majority of the applications will be denied at this level. You have 60 days to “Appeal for Reconsideration.” Another Disability Examiner will review your file and make another determination. Again, the majority of the cases are denied on Reconsideration.

You have another 60 days to file “A Request for a Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge.” This is the level where you should obtain representation. However, many clients retain an attorney at the Reconsideration level. At this point, your medical records should be updated and your case should be further evaluated to obtain additional evidence of disability. Once a hearing is requested, it will take approximately 18 months to have your hearing.