Appealing vs. Reapplying: What’s the Difference?

Appealing a Denial

If your application is denied, your first step should typically be an appeal, not a reapplication. The appeals process involves:

• Reconsideration
• Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
• Appeals Council review
• Federal Court review (if needed)

Appealing keeps your original filing date, which can affect the amount of back pay you’re eligible to receive.

Reapplying After a Denial

You can reapply if:

• You missed the appeal deadline (usually 60 days).
• Your condition has significantly changed or worsened.
• You’re starting over after going through all appeal levels.

A new application means a new filing date and potentially losing out on back benefits.

When Is It Better to Reapply?

Consider reapplying in Pennsylvania if:

• You didn’t appeal within 60 days of your denial.
• Your medical condition has substantially changed since the last claim.
• You have new evidence that wasn't available during the first application.
• Your original claim was incomplete or poorly documented.

However, reapplying without correcting the issues that led to your initial denial will likely lead to the same outcome.

What to Do Before Reapplying

Before you reapply for SSDI in Pennsylvania, take the following steps:

• Request and review your denial letter to understand the reason for denial.
• Update your medical records and include any new diagnoses, treatments, or test results.
• Double-check your work history and ensure it meets SSDI requirements.
• Consult a professional to assess whether reapplying or appealing is your best option.