Request for Reconsideration Form SSA-561 in Maine: How to Appeal a Social Security Denial

If your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) application was denied in Maine, don’t panic—you’re not alone. Thousands of applicants receive denial letters each year. The good news? You can fight back.

The SSA-561 Request for Reconsideration Form gives you the right to appeal that decision. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to file the form in Maine, deadlines to watch, and the mistakes that often derail claims.

What Is Form SSA-561 and Why File It?

The SSA-561-U2 is a formal request for the Social Security Administration (SSA) to review your denied claim. It applies to:

• SSDI benefit denials

• SSI benefit denials

• Medicare and overpayment issues

• Non-medical decisions affecting your benefits

Download the SSA-561 form (PDF)

Appeal online through SSA.gov

How to File SSA-561 in Maine

Step 1: Know the Deadline

You must submit your appeal within 60 days of the date on your denial letter. The SSA assumes you received it within 5 days of mailing unless you prove otherwise.

Step 2: Complete the Form

The SSA-561 form will ask for:

• Your name and Social Security number

• A clear explanation of why you disagree with the decision

• Any new evidence or medical records that support your case

Step 3: Submit the Form

In Maine, you can file the form by:

• Online: Via the SSA Appeal Portal

• Mail: Send to the SSA address listed on your denial letter

• In-Person: Visit a local SSA office in Maine

Common Reasons for SSA Denials in Maine

• Incomplete or inaccurate application

• Insufficient medical documentation

• Disability does not meet SSA standards

• Earning income above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit

You can avoid repeating these issues during the reconsideration process by reviewing SSA’s disability criteria.

What Happens After Filing SSA-561?

After submission, the SSA assigns your case to someone who was not involved in the original decision. They’ll perform a full review of your case. You will typically receive a decision within 60 to 120 days.

If your request is denied again, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).

For more detailed guidance, explore this step-by-step guide by Louis Law Group

How Louis Law Group Can Help with the Request for Reconsideration Form SSA-561 in Maine

Filing SSA-561 is more than just submitting paperwork. You need to present your strongest case—and that’s where Louis Law Group comes in.

Their experienced Social Security disability attorneys can help:

• Accurately complete and file the SSA-561 form

• Gather and submit supporting medical documentation

• Communicate directly with SSA on your behalf

• Strategically prepare for further appeal stages if necessary

Having a legal team on your side increases your chances of success, especially when appealing a denial in Maine’s strict review environment.

Discover more about our services on the Louis Law Group Social Security Disability

Tips to Strengthen Your SSA-561 Appeal in Maine

• File within 60 days

• Provide detailed reasons for reconsideration

• Submit new or updated medical records

• Include all relevant evidence the SSA may have missed

• Contact legal help if the process feels overwhelming

FAQs About SSA-561 in Maine

Q: Can I file SSA-561 online if I live in Maine?

Yes. Visit the SSA’s online appeal portal to submit electronically.

Q: What happens if I miss the 60-day deadline?

You’ll need to provide a written statement explaining the delay. The SSA may still consider your request if you show good cause.

Q: Can I include new medical evidence with my appeal?

Absolutely. Including updated medical records can strengthen your case and should be part of your reconsideration filing.

Q: How long does the reconsideration process take?

Generally, decisions are made within 2–4 months, depending on the complexity and SSA’s backlog.

Q: Should I hire a lawyer to file SSA-561 in Maine?

While not required, legal support from a firm like Louis Law Group can significantly improve your chances of a successful appeal.

Conclusion: Don’t Let a Denial Stop You—File SSA-561 in Maine

If the SSA has denied your benefits, the SSA-561 Request for Reconsideration Form is your next step. Whether the denial was due to missing evidence, administrative error, or a misunderstanding, you can and should appeal.

Don’t wait. Deadlines matter. File the form correctly, support it with the right documentation, and consider legal help. In Maine, Louis Law Group can assist you with this vital step and advocate for your rights.

Contact Louis Law Group today for a free consultation. Call 833-657-4812 or submit a free case evaluation form to get started. Don’t wait—let us help you take the first step toward justice and financial recovery.