SSDI Guide: SSI and SSDI in New Hampshire, New Hampshire

SSDI Denials and Appeals in New Hampshire, New Hampshire: A Practical, Rights-Focused Guide

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be a lifeline for New Hampshire residents who can no longer work due to a severe medical impairment. Yet many initial claims are denied. If you live in New Hampshire, New Hampshire and received an SSDI denial, you still have multiple appeal rights and federal protections. This guide explains the federal rules, the step-by-step appeal process, critical deadlines, and how to position your case for success—while providing New Hampshire-specific context on where and how to engage with the Social Security Administration (SSA).

SSDI is a federal program, so the same rules apply in every state; however, the SSA administers claims through regional and state-level components, including Disability Determination Services (DDS) and local field offices. New Hampshire claims are evaluated under federal law and regulations, and appeals follow national procedures. You can work with the SSA online, by phone, or at a local field office in New Hampshire. The SSA’s Boston Region (Region I) oversees operations affecting New Hampshire claimants, and the agency provides tools to find the nearest New Hampshire office for status checks, submissions, and appointments.

Below, you’ll find a clear overview of your rights under the Social Security Act and the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), the most common reasons for denials, and a practical roadmap for requesting reconsideration, a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), review by the Appeals Council, and finally federal court review, if necessary. We slightly favor the claimant’s perspective while keeping the guidance evidence-based and strictly aligned with authoritative sources. This article also flags key regulatory citations so you can confirm every point directly in the SSA’s rules.

Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Claimants

• Act quickly: Appeals generally must be filed within 60 days of receiving an adverse decision (with a 5-day mailing presumption). See 20 CFR 404.909(a)(1), 404.933(b)(1), 404.968(a)(1); and the definition of receipt at 20 CFR 404.901.
• Know your rights: You have the right to representation (20 CFR 404.1705), to a hearing (20 CFR 404.929), and to present evidence and question witnesses (20 CFR 404.950).
• Build the record: The SSA evaluates disability under federal standards, including the five-step sequential evaluation (20 CFR 404.1520) and medical evidence rules (20 CFR 404.1512–404.1513).
• Local access: Use SSA’s locator to find New Hampshire field offices for in-person assistance, and contact the Boston Region resources that include New Hampshire.

Understanding Your SSDI Rights

SSDI provides benefits to insured workers (and certain dependents) who meet the federal definition of disability. Under the Social Security Act, disability means the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity because of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment expected to result in death or last at least 12 months. See Social Security Act §223(d), 42 U.S.C. § 423(d). SSA’s regulations detail the framework for evaluating adult disability claims, including the five-step sequential evaluation at 20 CFR 404.1520 and the 12-month duration requirement at 20 CFR 404.1509.

SSDI is distinct from Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is needs-based and does not require prior work credits; SSDI is based on work history and insured status. Although this guide focuses on SSDI denials and appeals, many appeal principles and deadlines are similar in SSI cases (e.g., 60-day appeal windows). If you have both SSDI and SSI claims, the SSA generally processes them under parallel rules, and you should appeal all unfavorable determinations by the stated deadlines.

Your Procedural Rights

• Right to Representation: You may appoint a qualified representative, including an attorney, to help at any stage. See 20 CFR 404.1705. SSA must approve representative fees under 42 U.S.C. § 406(a) and 20 CFR 404.1720–404.1730.
• Right to a Hearing: If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an ALJ. See 20 CFR 404.929 and 404.933.
• Right to Submit Evidence: You must submit or inform SSA about all evidence known to you that relates to whether you are disabled, including medical and nonmedical evidence. See 20 CFR 404.1512 and who can be a medical source under 20 CFR 404.1513.
• Right to Question Witnesses and Present Testimony: At the ALJ hearing, you may question witnesses and present your own testimony. See 20 CFR 404.950.
• Right to Federal Court Review: After the Appeals Council, you may file a civil action under Social Security Act §205(g), 42 U.S.C. § 405(g).

SSA must provide written notice explaining its determinations and decisions. You typically have 60 days from receiving a notice to file the next appeal. SSA presumes you receive a notice 5 days after the date on the notice unless you show otherwise. See 20 CFR 404.901 (receipt), 404.909(a)(1) (reconsideration deadline), 404.933(b)(1) (hearing request deadline), 404.968(a)(1) (Appeals Council deadline), and 20 CFR 422.210 (civil action deadline).

Common Reasons SSA Denies SSDI Claims

Knowing how and why claims are denied can help you correct gaps on appeal. The SSA uses a standardized evaluation. See 20 CFR 404.1520 (five-step process). Common denial reasons include:

• Earnings above Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): If you are working and your average monthly earnings exceed the SGA level, you may be found not disabled at Step 1. See 20 CFR 404.1571–404.1576. The SGA amount is set by SSA and updated periodically; check SSA’s website for the current figure.
• Insufficient Duration or Severity: Your impairment must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death (20 CFR 404.1509), and it must be severe enough to significantly limit basic work activities (Step 2). See 20 CFR 404.1520(a)(4)(ii) and 404.1522.
• Does Not Meet or Equal a Listing: At Step 3, SSA considers whether your impairment meets or medically equals a Listing in the Listing of Impairments (often called the Blue Book). If not, SSA evaluates your residual functional capacity (RFC) for Steps 4 and 5. Listings are described in 20 CFR Part 404, Subpart P, Appendix 1.
• Can Perform Past Relevant Work: If SSA finds you can still perform your past relevant work (Step 4), it will deny the claim. See 20 CFR 404.1520(f).
• Can Adjust to Other Work: Even if you can’t perform your past work, SSA may deny at Step 5 if it finds you can adjust to other work in the national economy, considering your age, education, and RFC. See 20 CFR 404.1520(g).
• Lack of Medical Evidence: Without objective medical evidence from acceptable medical sources (20 CFR 404.1513(a)), SSA may not be able to verify a medically determinable impairment. Gaps in treatment can also undermine claims.
• Noncooperation or Missed Exams: If you fail to attend a consultative examination or otherwise do not cooperate, SSA may deny. See 20 CFR 404.1518.
• Failure to Follow Prescribed Treatment: If you do not follow prescribed treatment without good reason, SSA may deny. See 20 CFR 404.1530.

SSA also evaluates symptoms (such as pain and fatigue). Rulings like SSR 16-3p guide adjudicators in assessing the consistency of your statements with the evidence, though objective medical evidence remains key to establishing a medically determinable impairment.

Federal Legal Protections and Regulations That Apply to New Hampshire Cases

Because SSDI is federal, New Hampshire claimants benefit from the same statutory and regulatory safeguards as claimants nationwide. The following authorities govern:

• Statutory Standard: Social Security Act §223(d), 42 U.S.C. § 423(d), defines disability.
• Judicial Review: Social Security Act §205(g), 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), authorizes federal court review after the Appeals Council.
• Five-Step Framework: 20 CFR 404.1520 outlines the sequential evaluation.
• Duration Requirement: 20 CFR 404.1509 requires a 12-month duration or expectation of death.
• Medical Evidence and Opinion Rules: 20 CFR 404.1512 (duty to submit evidence), 404.1513 (acceptable medical sources and evidence types), and 404.1520c (consideration of medical opinions and prior administrative findings).
• RFC and Evidence Evaluation: 20 CFR 404.1545 (RFC assessment).
• Appeals Process: 20 CFR 404.900 (administrative review process), 404.909 (reconsideration), 404.929 and 404.933 (ALJ hearing rights and timing), 404.968 (Appeals Council), 404.981 (finality of Appeals Council decision), and 20 CFR 422.210 (time for filing a civil action).
• Good Cause for Late Appeals: 20 CFR 404.911 describes when SSA may find good cause for late filing.
• Representation and Fees: 20 CFR 404.1705–404.1717 (representatives), and 404.1720–404.1730 (fee authorization and payment). See also 42 U.S.C. § 406(a).

These authorities ensure you can appeal and develop the record fully, with clear timelines and a structure for presenting medical and vocational evidence. New Hampshire residents can rely on these protections through each stage of review, from initial claim to federal court.

Steps to Take After an SSDI Denial

Receive a denial? Stay calm and act quickly. The administrative appeal process is designed to correct errors and consider additional evidence. Timeliness and documentation matter.

1) Read the Notice Carefully

• Identify the rationale for denial (e.g., the step of the sequential evaluation and any evidentiary issues noted).
• Confirm the appeal deadline. Generally you have 60 days from receiving the notice (presumed 5 days after the date on the notice) to appeal. See 20 CFR 404.901 and 404.909(a)(1).

2) Request Reconsideration

• File a reconsideration request online or via paper forms by the deadline. See 20 CFR 404.909.
• Submit any new medical records, diagnostic tests, updated medication lists, and statements from treating professionals. Under 20 CFR 404.1512, you must submit all evidence known to you that relates to disability.
• Respond promptly to SSA or DDS requests and attend any consultative examination scheduled.

3) Request a Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

• If reconsideration is denied, request an ALJ hearing within 60 days of receipt. See 20 CFR 404.933(b)(1) and hearing rights at 20 CFR 404.929.
• At the hearing, you have the right to present evidence, question witnesses (including vocational or medical experts), and make arguments. See 20 CFR 404.950.
• Prepare an organized exhibit list, clarify your onset date, and submit a prehearing brief summarizing evidence against the five-step framework (20 CFR 404.1520).

4) Request Appeals Council Review

• If the ALJ denies your claim, request Appeals Council review within 60 days of receipt. See 20 CFR 404.968.
• The Appeals Council may deny review, grant review, issue its own decision, or remand to an ALJ. See 20 CFR 404.967–404.981.

5) File a Civil Action in Federal Court

• If the Appeals Council denies review or issues an unfavorable decision, you can file a civil action within 60 days under Social Security Act §205(g), 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), and 20 CFR 422.210.

Good Cause for Late Filing

If you miss a deadline, you can ask for an extension by showing good cause under 20 CFR 404.911. Good cause may include circumstances such as serious illness, records destruction, or incorrect information from SSA. Always submit your request as soon as possible along with any supporting documentation.

Evidence That Can Strengthen Your Appeal

• Treating Source Records: Office notes, imaging, labs, hospitalizations, and surgical records from acceptable medical sources (20 CFR 404.1513(a)).
• Medical Opinions and Functional Assessments: Opinions addressing work-related limitations in sitting, standing, walking, lifting, concentrating, persistence, and pace. SSA evaluates persuasiveness under 20 CFR 404.1520c.
• Objective Testing: MRIs, CT scans, EMGs, neuropsychological testing, and other diagnostics supporting a medically determinable impairment.
• Consistent Treatment History: Regular follow-up care helps demonstrate persistence and severity; explain any gaps (e.g., access or medical reasons).
• Third-Party Statements: Statements from family, friends, or former supervisors may help provide context, though medical evidence carries the most weight.

When to Seek Legal Help for SSDI Appeals

You are allowed to represent yourself, but many New Hampshire claimants choose professional representation for reconsideration, hearings, and beyond. Representatives understand SSA’s rules, deadlines, and evidentiary standards. Under 20 CFR 404.1705, qualified representatives can include attorneys and certain non-attorneys. SSA must approve all representative fees (42 U.S.C. § 406(a); 20 CFR 404.1720–404.1730). In federal court, only licensed attorneys may appear.

If your case involves complex medical issues, multiple impairments, or vocational disputes (for example, conflicting testimony from a vocational expert), representation may improve how your record is developed and presented. Representatives can help:

• Track and meet appeal deadlines and submit required forms.
• Obtain and organize medical evidence aligned with 20 CFR 404.1512–404.1513 and 404.1520c.
• Prepare you for testimony consistent with SSA’s evaluation criteria, including symptom evaluation policies.
• Cross-examine vocational or medical experts and submit legal arguments referencing 20 CFR 404.1520 and related provisions.

For advice on issues specific to New Hampshire law outside the SSA process, consult an attorney licensed in New Hampshire. For SSA administrative proceedings, representatives must meet SSA requirements under 20 CFR 404.1705–404.1717.

Local Resources and Next Steps for New Hampshire Residents

While SSDI is federal, accessing SSA services locally can be valuable. New Hampshire claimants can use SSA’s national helpline, online services, and local field offices to file appeals, submit evidence, and track case status.

Contact SSA and Find Your Local New Hampshire Office

SSA Office Locator: Use the official SSA tool to find the nearest New Hampshire field office for addresses, hours, and services. Find a New Hampshire SSA OfficeSSA Boston Region (covers New Hampshire): Regional information for New England claimants. SSA Boston Regional Office- SSA Toll-Free: 1-800-772-1213; TTY 1-800-325-0778

These official resources provide the most current contact information, hours, and service options (in-person, phone, mail, and online). When you appeal, keep copies of everything you submit and note the date and method of filing.

Appeal Online and Monitor Your Case

Appeal Portal: You can request reconsideration, a hearing, and submit evidence online. Appeal a DecisionHearing Options: SSA may offer in-person, telephone, or online video hearings for New Hampshire claimants. Hearing Options with SSA

What to Include in Your New Hampshire Appeal Packet

• Updated medical records and provider contact information (20 CFR 404.1512–404.1513).
• A written statement summarizing how your impairments prevent full-time work, organized by the five-step framework (20 CFR 404.1520).
• Medication lists, side effects, and symptom diaries consistent with your medical records.
• Employer records if relevant (e.g., accommodations attempted, attendance records, or performance documentation).

Detailed Overview of the SSDI Appeals Process

Reconsideration

Reconsideration is a full review by someone who did not take part in the first decision. See 20 CFR 404.909. You can and should submit new evidence. If SSA asks for a consultative exam, attend promptly. If you miss the 60-day window but have good cause under 20 CFR 404.911, request an extension with documentation.

Hearing Before an ALJ

If reconsideration is denied, request an ALJ hearing within 60 days of receipt. See 20 CFR 404.933(b)(1). Before the hearing:

• Organize the medical file and submit evidence as early as possible.
• Address any past work duties and why you cannot perform them now (Step 4).
• Prepare to explain how your limitations preclude other work (Step 5), considering age, education, and skills (20 CFR 404.1520(g)).

At the hearing, you have rights to present evidence and question witnesses (20 CFR 404.950). The ALJ may call a vocational expert or medical expert. Be ready to address hypotheticals about your work capacity (RFC) and the consistency of your symptoms with medical evidence.

Appeals Council Review

Request review within 60 days (20 CFR 404.968). The Appeals Council considers whether the ALJ applied the law correctly, whether the decision is supported by substantial evidence, and whether new, material, and time-relevant evidence warrants review. Outcomes include denial of review, a new decision, or remand.

Federal Court

If the Appeals Council denies review or issues an unfavorable decision, you may file a civil action within 60 days under §205(g) of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), and 20 CFR 422.210. A federal judge will review the administrative record for legal error and substantial evidence support.

Practical Tips to Strengthen an SSDI Appeal in New Hampshire

• Track Deadlines Meticulously: Use the date on the notice, add 5 days for mailing (20 CFR 404.901), then count 60 days (e.g., 20 CFR 404.909, 404.933, 404.968).
• Clarify Your Onset Date: Ensure the alleged onset date aligns with medical evidence, work history, and insured status.
• Submit All Relevant Evidence: 20 CFR 404.1512 requires you to inform SSA about or submit all evidence known to you that relates to disability.
• Address Opinions and Consistency: Under 20 CFR 404.1520c, explain why your treating sources’ opinions are persuasive, focusing on supportability and consistency.
• Explain Treatment Gaps: If you missed appointments or had gaps, document reasons (e.g., medical, logistical) so adjudicators do not interpret gaps as lack of severity.
• Use Symptom Evidence Thoughtfully: Provide detailed, consistent accounts of pain, fatigue, and functional limits. Ensure your statements align with clinical findings and daily activities.
• Prepare for Vocational Testimony: Be ready to discuss past job duties, transferable skills, and why proposed jobs do not match your RFC limitations.

SSI vs. SSDI: Why the Distinction Matters on Appeal

Some New Hampshire residents apply for both SSI and SSDI. SSI is needs-based; SSDI is tied to work credits and insured status. Denials may flow from different issues—for instance, non-disability financial eligibility for SSI or insured status for SSDI. When you appeal, verify you are appealing each program as needed and provide program-specific evidence (e.g., income/resource updates for SSI; work history and insured status documentation for SSDI). SSA’s online appeal system allows you to address both, when applicable.

Representation, Fees, and Ethics

SSA strictly regulates representation and fees in disability cases. Representatives must meet SSA requirements (20 CFR 404.1705–404.1717). SSA must approve fees (42 U.S.C. § 406(a); 20 CFR 404.1720–404.1730), which are generally paid from past-due benefits if the claim is successful, subject to SSA approval. In New Hampshire, if a matter proceeds to federal court, only attorneys admitted to practice before the federal court may appear. For advice on New Hampshire-specific legal issues outside SSA proceedings, consult an attorney licensed in New Hampshire.

New Hampshire Logistics: Working with SSA Locally

While SSA is federal, many claimants prefer in-person or phone support through local field offices in New Hampshire. Use SSA’s locator to obtain accurate addresses and hours and to schedule appointments. The Boston Regional Office page provides additional regional information, policies, and updates that cover New Hampshire.

SSA Office Locator (Find New Hampshire Offices)SSA Boston Region (Includes New Hampshire)Appeal a Social Security DecisionSocial Security Act §205 (42 U.S.C. § 405)

Frequently Asked, Evidence-Based Questions

How long do I have to appeal my SSDI denial in New Hampshire?

Generally, 60 days from when you receive the notice (presumed 5 days after the notice date). See 20 CFR 404.901 (receipt), 404.909(a)(1) (reconsideration), 404.933(b)(1) (hearing), and 404.968(a)(1) (Appeals Council).

Can I submit new medical evidence after an initial denial?

Yes. You should submit new and existing evidence at reconsideration and before the ALJ hearing. SSA requires you to submit or inform them about all relevant evidence. See 20 CFR 404.1512–404.1513.

What if my condition worsens after the denial?

Notify SSA and submit updated records. Worsening conditions can be considered on appeal and may affect RFC findings and outcomes, particularly at the ALJ stage.

Do I need a New Hampshire-based attorney?

For SSA administrative proceedings, representatives must satisfy SSA’s federal requirements (20 CFR 404.1705–404.1717). For legal advice on New Hampshire-specific issues outside SSA or for federal court litigation within the state, consult an attorney licensed to practice in the appropriate jurisdiction.

What is the “SSDI denial appeal new hampshire new hampshire” search phrase about?

It’s a common search formulation by New Hampshire residents seeking information on SSDI denials and appeals. The federal rules described here apply to New Hampshire claims and nationwide.

Checklist: Preparing Your New Hampshire SSDI Appeal

• Calendar the Deadline: Identify the mailing date, add five days (20 CFR 404.901), and count 60 days.
• Gather Records: Request updated treatment notes, test results, and imaging from all providers (20 CFR 404.1512–404.1513).
• Draft a Summary: Explain symptoms, functional limits, and how they align with the five-step process (20 CFR 404.1520).
• Confirm Work History: Detail past job duties, dates, and reasons you can no longer perform them.
• Submit the Appeal: File reconsideration or a hearing request using SSA’s online system or the local office.
• Prepare for the Hearing: If applicable, practice testimony and review potential vocational hypotheticals with your representative.

Essential Citations at a Glance

• Definition of disability: Social Security Act §223(d), 42 U.S.C. § 423(d)
• Five-step evaluation: 20 CFR 404.1520
• 12-month duration: 20 CFR 404.1509
• Medical evidence: 20 CFR 404.1512–404.1513
• Reconsideration: 20 CFR 404.909
• Hearing rights/timing: 20 CFR 404.929 and 404.933
• Appeals Council: 20 CFR 404.968–404.981
• Civil action: Social Security Act §205(g), 42 U.S.C. § 405(g); 20 CFR 422.210
• Good cause: 20 CFR 404.911
• Representation/fees: 20 CFR 404.1705–404.1730; 42 U.S.C. § 406(a)

Legal Disclaimer

This guide provides general information for New Hampshire, New Hampshire SSDI claimants and is not legal advice. Every case is different. Deadlines and requirements are strictly enforced. Consult a licensed New Hampshire attorney or qualified representative about your specific situation.

Next Step

If your SSDI claim was denied, call Louis Law Group at 833-657-4812 for a free case evaluation and claim review.