If you live in or near Charlotte, North Carolina, and your Social Security Disability claim has been denied, you are not alone. Thousands of North Carolinians apply for SSDI benefits each year, and most are denied the first time. The good news is that you can appeal — and hiring a Charlotte Social Security Disability Appeals Lawyer can make a huge difference in your outcome.
This post explains what makes the Charlotte appeals process unique, how an experienced lawyer can help, and what to expect if your case goes before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
Why Most People in Charlotte Are Denied the First Time
Across the country, about two-thirds of SSDI applications are denied at the initial level. In North Carolina, that number can be even higher. The reasons for denial are often the same:
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Missing or incomplete medical records
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Not enough details about how your condition affects daily life
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Not following prescribed treatment
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Incomplete forms or late submissions
Even small mistakes can lead to a denial. But that’s why appealing — instead of reapplying — is so important.
Understanding the SSDI Appeals Process in Charlotte
Once your initial claim is denied, you have 60 days to file an appeal. The process usually follows these steps:
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Reconsideration – A new reviewer looks over your claim.
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Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) – This is where most viable claims are approved.
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Appeals Council – Reviews the judge’s decision if necessary.
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Federal Court – The final step for unresolved cases.
Most hearings in Charlotte are handled at the ODAR (Office of Disability Adjudication and Review), which serves Mecklenburg County and surrounding areas. The ALJs there are familiar with North Carolina’s medical systems, hospitals, and local doctors — something your lawyer can use to your advantage.
How a Charlotte Disability Lawyer Helps You Appeal
A local lawyer knows how to navigate the SSA’s system efficiently. They can:
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Request updated medical records and treatment notes from local providers
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Submit strong written arguments based on SSA rules
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Prepare you for your hearing with personalized coaching
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Attend the hearing and speak directly to the judge on your behalf
Having a lawyer from your area also helps ensure they understand the judges’ preferences and how local cases are typically handled.
What Happens at a Disability Hearing
The hearing isn’t like a court trial. There’s no jury or opposing lawyer. Instead, the judge asks questions about your health, symptoms, and work history. A vocational expert may testify about what kind of work you could still do.
Your Charlotte SSDI lawyer will:
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Explain what to expect
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Make sure your testimony is clear and consistent
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Cross-examine the vocational expert if necessary
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Present medical evidence showing you cannot work full-time
These hearings usually last up to an hour, but they are often the most important part of your appeal.
How Long Does the Appeal Take?
In Charlotte, it can take several months to get a hearing date due to the number of cases filed each year. During this time, your lawyer stays in contact with the SSA, checks the status of your case, and submits any new medical updates.
To learn more about how back payments work once your claim is approved, read How Long Does It Take to Get SSDI Back Pay?
Costs and Fees
Just like other disability lawyers, Charlotte SSDI lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless you win your case. The lawyer’s fee if your claim is successful is taken from your awarded back pay and is capped by law.
When to Contact a Charlotte Disability Appeals Lawyer
The best time to contact a lawyer is immediately after receiving your denial letter. The sooner you start, the more time your lawyer has to gather evidence and build your case.
If you’ve already filed an appeal, you can still contact a lawyer at any time during the process.
Key Takeaway
Appealing a Social Security Disability denial in Charlotte doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the help of a skilled local lawyer, you can improve your chances of success and get the benefits you’ve worked hard for. Contact our local, Charlotte disability lawyers today for a free consultation on your claim.
