Request for Reconsideration Form SSA-561 in Illinois: Your Guide to Appealing an SSA Denial

Being denied Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in Illinois can feel like a dead end—but it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve received a denial letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA), you have the right to appeal.

The first step in this process is filing the SSA-561 Request for Reconsideration Form. This article explains what the form is, how to submit it in Illinois, how to improve your chances of approval, and how Louis Law Group can support your appeal.

What Is SSA-561?

Form SSA-561 is used to request a reconsideration of a decision made by the SSA. This is a mandatory step before proceeding to a disability hearing. You can use this form if:

• Your initial SSDI or SSI application was denied

• Your existing benefits were reduced or stopped

• You received a notice of overpayment

Download SSA-561 Form (PDF)

Submit your appeal online here

How to File SSA-561 in Illinois

You must submit Form SSA-561 within 60 days of receiving your denial notice. If you wait longer, you must show good cause for the delay.

Where to File

You can file the form through one of these methods:

• Online: Visit the SSA's official appeal portal

• By Mail: Send to the address listed in your denial notice

• In Person: Visit a Social Security office in Illinois

What to Include

To strengthen your reconsideration request, include:

• A clear explanation of why you disagree with the SSA’s decision

• New medical evidence, test results, or letters from your doctor

• Any corrections to previous inaccuracies or omissions

What Happens After You Submit SSA-561?

After you file the form, the SSA will assign a different reviewer (not involved in the original decision) to reexamine your case. This process typically takes 60–90 days in Illinois, though timelines may vary depending on case complexity.

If your request for reconsideration is denied again, your next step is to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).

Top Reasons SSA Denies Disability Benefits in Illinois

Understanding common reasons for denials can help you avoid pitfalls during your reconsideration:

• Insufficient medical documentation

• Earning income above the SSA's Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold

• Failure to follow prescribed treatments

• Not cooperating with SSA communications or consultative exams

• A condition that doesn’t meet SSA’s criteria under the Blue Book

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 Illinois

A denied SSDI or SSI claim isn’t the end of your journey—it’s an opportunity to build a stronger case. Louis Law Group has experience handling Social Security appeals across the U.S., including Illinois.

Their legal team helps clients:

• Understand why they were denied

• Collect and submit strong medical evidence

• Accurately complete Form SSA-561

• Navigate complex SSA processes from start to finish

Letting experienced professionals handle your appeal could significantly improve your chances of a successful reconsideration.

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

Tips for Filing a Strong SSA-561 Appeal

• Act quickly to meet the 60-day deadline

• Submit updated medical records and detailed physician statements

• Keep communication records with SSA offices

• Organize your documentation carefully

• Attend all scheduled SSA consultative exams

FAQs: SSA-561 Request for Reconsideration in Illinois

Q: Can I file SSA-561 online in Illinois?

Yes. You can submit it via the SSA’s online portal.

Q: Do I need a lawyer to appeal with SSA-561?

While not required, a lawyer can greatly improve your chances by ensuring your appeal is complete, strategic, and evidence-backed.

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

You must explain your reason in writing. SSA may accept late filings if you show “good cause.”

Q: Will I have a hearing after filing SSA-561?

Not yet. Reconsideration is a paper review. If denied again, you may request a hearing with an ALJ.

Q: How long does it take for SSA to respond in Illinois?

Most reconsideration decisions are made within 60 to 90 days.

Conclusion: File Your SSA-561 and Take the Next Step Toward Benefits

If you’ve been denied SSDI or SSI in Illinois, don’t wait. Filing a Request for Reconsideration Form SSA-561 is your legal right and your best next step. With proper documentation and possibly legal support, your appeal can succeed.

Still unsure how to proceed? The right guidance can make all the difference.

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.