Filing an Application

Filing a Request for Reconsideration

Proceeding to a Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge

The Appeals Council

Federal Court

Determining Disability Benefits


Step Four: The Appeals Council.


The next and final administrative level of appeal is to request a review by the Appeals Council. As with all of the other administrative appeals described above, this appeal must be filed within 60 days after receipt of the hearing decision. No case can proceed to the district court for judicial review without first having been adjudicated by the Appeals Council.