What are the appeal steps for disability in Wyoming?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 05/22/2025
If your Social Security Disability (SSDI or SSI) claim has been denied in Wyoming, you're not alone. Many valid claims are initially denied. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides multiple opportunities to appeal the decision.
Understanding the steps involved is essential to keeping your case on track and improving your chances of approval.
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Step 1: Request for Reconsideration
The first step in the appeal process is the Request for Reconsideration. This is a complete review of your case by a different SSA claims examiner.
- Timeline: Typically takes
2 to 4 months
What to Do: - Submit Form SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration)
- Provide any new medical evidence or updated documentation
- Continue all medical treatments and document your condition’s progression
Tip: Most reconsideration requests are also denied — don’t get discouraged. This step is necessary to move forward.
Step 2: Request a Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an ALJ.
- Timeline: May take
9 to 14 months to schedule in Wyoming
What Happens: - You (and your representative, if you have one) can present your case
- A judge will review your file and may question you about your condition
- Expert witnesses (vocational or medical) may testify
This is your best chance of overturning a denial — over 45% of claims are approved at this stage nationwide.
Step 3: Appeals Council Review
If the ALJ denies your claim, the next step is to request a review by the SSA Appeals Council.
- Timeline: Around
6 months to 1 year
What to Know: - The Appeals Council can deny your request, return it to the ALJ for another hearing, or issue a decision itself
- New evidence is only accepted if it’s relevant to your original case
Step 4: Federal District Court Lawsuit
If the Appeals Council denies your claim or upholds the ALJ’s denial, you have the right to file a lawsuit in federal district court.
- Timeline: Varies by case
What It Involves: - A federal judge will review the administrative record
- No new evidence is allowed — the judge reviews what’s already in the SSA file
- You may need a lawyer to handle this level of appeal
How Hogan Smith Can Help You
The disability appeals process is complex and can be frustrating, especially in Wyoming where hearing wait times may be long. At Hogan Smith, we offer:
- Step-by-step guidance through the appeals process
- Help gathering additional medical evidence and building your case
- Experienced representation at ALJ hearings
- Strategic support if your case reaches the Appeals Council or federal court
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’ve been denied disability in Wyoming, don’t give up.
Contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation.
We’ll help you understand your options, meet critical deadlines, and pursue the benefits you deserve — every step of the way.
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