Levels of Filing for Social Security

Initial Application – This is the first stage in filing for disability when you file your initial application.
Reconsideration – Should you not be awarded at the initial stage, you have 60 days from the date of your denial at the initial level to file for reconsideration.
Hearing – Should you be denied at the reconsideration level, you have 60 days from the date of your denial to file an application for hearing before an administrative law judge.
Appeals Council – Unfortunately, some administrative law judges’s will deny your case regardless of your medical evidence. You may within 60 days from the date of the judge’s denial, file a request for review before the appeals council.