Video: Overview of Steps 4 to 6 to appeal a SSDI or SSI denial
Go to descriptive transcript. Links in this video: Social Security Appeal Roadmap (this page); Video: Overview of How to Appeal a SSDI or SSI Denial for the First Time – Steps 1 to 3; Contact Legal Services Vermont; Contact your representatives in Congress.
In Vermont, once the Social Security Administration gets your appeal, they will send your case to a special unit called the Vermont Disability Determination Service (DDS). DDS reviews your medical conditions and whether you can work.
It is very important to keep in communication with DDS. They work for the State of Vermont, but they report back to Social Security. They can decide that you should win your case without a hearing. But they can also close your appeal if you don’t answer them or get them documents they need without a good reason.
Fill out the Function Report - Adult
Within two weeks of submitting your appeal, DDS will send you a letter. It will have the DDS phone number, fax number, and mailing address for your case. This is different than the information for your local Social Security office. Save this information.
Deadline
This letter also includes a form to complete and send back within 10 days plus 5 days for mailing. The form is called the “Function Report - Adult.”
The form asks for details about what you do during the day and how your medical conditions affect your ability to work, take care of yourself, and live independently. Give detailed answers. Focus on how your conditions restrict what you can do.
Keep DDS updated
Keep DDS informed of upcoming medical appointments, and changes in medicines or treatments.
Go to your appointments
DDS may ask you to meet with a medical provider, or they may interview you. For example:
- They can ask you to see one of your own medical providers for more tests or exams.
- They can ask you to see another medical provider, that Social Security pays for, to run a test or examine you.
- They can ask to interview you about your medical treatment or ability to work if they have questions after reading your forms and the evidence you submitted.
Be on time for all appointments. If you can’t make an appointment, contact DDS in advance to reschedule.
DDS will review your case and either send you a written decision or a notice of a hearing.
