SSDI: Social Security Lawyers Near Me — Colorado, Colorado

Introduction: A Colorado, Colorado Guide to SSDI Denials and Appeals

If you live anywhere in Colorado, Colorado—whether along the Front Range or on the Western Slope—and your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim was denied, you are not alone. Many otherwise qualified workers receive an initial denial. The Social Security Administration (SSA) runs a national disability program governed by federal statutes and regulations. That means the standards for SSDI eligibility and appeals are the same in Colorado as they are in every other state. Still, your experience unfolds locally: your initial and reconsideration decisions are made by a state Disability Determination Services (DDS) unit, and any hearing is scheduled by an SSA hearing office that serves Colorado residents. Understanding your rights, deadlines, and the steps you can take—plus how to find local SSA resources—can make the difference between a denied claim and a successful appeal.

This guide slightly favors the claimant’s perspective while remaining strictly factual and grounded in authoritative sources: SSA rules, the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), and the Social Security Act. You’ll find clear explanations of the SSDI decision framework, the most common reasons claims are denied, specific appeal deadlines, and practical steps for building a stronger record. You’ll also get links to the SSA’s official appeals portal and tools to locate your nearest SSA field office serving Colorado.

Whether you are in Denver, Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Fort Collins, or any Colorado community, the federal SSDI process follows structured stages with defined timelines. Missing a deadline can result in dismissal of your appeal, while timely and complete submissions often improve your chances. If you searched for “social security lawyers near me” in Colorado and found this resource, know that you can represent yourself or appoint a representative through SSA rules, and that federal law provides several layers of review before a federal court is even necessary. If you are seeking information specific to the phrase "SSDI denial appeal colorado colorado," this page is tailored to help Colorado residents understand each step clearly, with accurate references to the governing regulations.

Understanding Your SSDI Rights

Who is eligible for SSDI?

SSDI is a federal insurance program for workers who have paid enough into Social Security through employment and who have a medically determinable impairment expected to last at least 12 months or result in death, preventing substantial gainful activity (SGA). Eligibility has two primary components: insured status based on work credits, and disability under SSA’s medical-vocational rules.

The five-step disability evaluation

SSA evaluates disability using a five-step sequential process outlined in federal regulations. In short:

• Step 1 (Work Activity): Are you performing substantial gainful activity? If yes, you are generally not disabled. See 20 CFR 404.1520.
• Step 2 (Severity): Do you have a severe impairment that significantly limits basic work activities and meets the duration requirement (at least 12 months or expected to result in death)? See 20 CFR 404.1509 and 20 CFR 404.1520.
• Step 3 (Listings): Does your impairment meet or equal a listing in the Listing of Impairments? If yes, you are disabled. If not, proceed.
• Step 4 (Past Work): Can you perform your past relevant work considering your residual functional capacity (RFC)? If yes, not disabled; if no, continue.
• Step 5 (Other Work): Can you adjust to other work in the national economy, considering your RFC, age, education, and skills? If no, disabled; if yes, not disabled. See 20 CFR 404.1520.

Your rights in the claims and appeals process

• Right to appeal: You have the right to appeal an adverse determination through multiple levels: reconsideration, hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), Appeals Council review, and federal court. See 20 CFR 404.900 and 42 U.S.C. § 405(g).
• Right to representation: You may appoint an attorney or qualified representative to help with any stage of the claim. See 20 CFR 404.1705.
• Right to submit evidence: You may submit medical and nonmedical evidence, including records from your treating sources and statements from family or coworkers. See 20 CFR 404.1512.
• Right to review your file: You may request and review your claims file to understand the evidence used in decision-making.
• Right to a fair hearing: If you request a hearing, you are entitled to notice and an opportunity to be heard before an ALJ, with rules on scheduling, objections to issues, and disqualification if needed. See 20 CFR 404.929–404.961.

How SSA weighs medical opinions

For claims filed on or after March 27, 2017, SSA no longer gives “controlling weight” to any single medical opinion. Instead, adjudicators assess the persuasiveness of medical opinions based on supportability and consistency, among other factors. See 20 CFR 404.1520c. This means detailed, well-supported records from your treating clinicians that align with the rest of the evidence can strengthen your case at all levels of review.

Common Reasons SSA Denies SSDI Claims

Insufficient work credits or lack of insured status

To qualify for SSDI, you must be insured under the Social Security program when you became disabled. The regulation governing insured status and work credits is at 20 CFR 404.130 and related sections. If you have not worked and paid Social Security taxes for a qualifying period before your alleged onset date, SSA may deny your claim even if you have significant medical limitations.

Earning above substantial gainful activity (SGA)

SSA generally will deny claims at Step 1 if your monthly earnings exceed the SGA level. The SGA amount is set by SSA and changes periodically; it is not necessary to quote a specific amount here. If you are working and earning above SGA when you apply, expect the claim to focus first on this threshold issue. See 20 CFR 404.1510 and 20 CFR 404.1571–404.1576.

Lack of evidence showing a severe, long-lasting impairment

Claims often fail at Step 2 if the medical evidence does not show a severe medically determinable impairment expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. See 20 CFR 404.1509 and 20 CFR 404.1521. Submitting comprehensive medical records is vital, including diagnostic imaging when applicable, treatment notes, functional assessments, and any relevant specialty evaluations.

Not following prescribed treatment or failure to cooperate

SSA may deny a claim if you fail, without good cause, to follow prescribed treatment that could restore your ability to work. See 20 CFR 404.1530. Additionally, failing to attend a consultative examination or not providing requested evidence can result in a denial for insufficient evidence. See 20 CFR 404.1518 and 20 CFR 404.1517–404.1519b.

Impairments not severe enough or not meeting/equaling a listing

Even when serious, an impairment may not meet or equal a listing at Step 3. In that case, the claim turns on whether your RFC allows you to perform past or other work. Robust documentation addressing functional limitations—such as standing, walking, lifting, concentration, and pace—helps SSA evaluate Steps 4 and 5 properly. See 20 CFR 404.1545 (RFC).

Substance use is material to disability

If drug addiction or alcoholism is a contributing factor material to the disability determination, SSA may deny benefits. The key question is whether SSA would still find you disabled if you stopped using. See 20 CFR 404.1535.

Federal Legal Protections & Regulations Governing SSDI Appeals

The four levels of appeal for Colorado claimants

SSA provides a uniform, nationwide appeals structure, which applies equally to Colorado residents:

• Reconsideration: A different adjudicator reviews your case and any new evidence. See 20 CFR 404.909 and 20 CFR 404.907.
• Hearing before an ALJ: If reconsideration is denied, you may request a hearing before an ALJ. See 20 CFR 404.929 and 20 CFR 404.933.
• Appeals Council review: If the ALJ decision is unfavorable, you can request Appeals Council review. See 20 CFR 404.967 and 20 CFR 404.968.
• Federal court: After the Appeals Council denies review or issues an unfavorable decision, you can file a civil action in federal district court. Judicial review is governed by Section 205(g) of the Social Security Act, codified at 42 U.S.C. § 405(g).

Appeal deadlines (statutes of limitations within SSA’s process)

• Reconsideration: You generally have 60 days from receipt of the notice to request reconsideration. SSA presumes you receive the notice 5 days after the date on the notice unless you show otherwise. See 20 CFR 404.909(a)(1) and 20 CFR 404.901 (mailing rule definitions).
• Hearing: You generally have 60 days from receipt of the reconsideration denial to request a hearing. See 20 CFR 404.933(b)(1).
• Appeals Council: You generally have 60 days from receipt of the ALJ decision to request Appeals Council review. See 20 CFR 404.968(a)(1).
• Federal court: You generally have 60 days from receipt of the Appeals Council notice to file suit in the U.S. District Court for the district where you reside; for Colorado residents, that is the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado. See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g) and 20 CFR 422.210.

Good cause for late filing: SSA may extend deadlines if you show good cause, such as serious illness, records not available, or other circumstances beyond your control. See 20 CFR 404.911.

Evidence rules that protect claimants

• Claimant’s duty to submit evidence: You must inform SSA about and submit or authorize SSA to obtain all evidence known to you that relates to whether you are disabled. See 20 CFR 404.1512.
• SSA’s development of the record: SSA may request medical records or schedule a consultative examination if necessary. See 20 CFR 404.1519a.
• Hearing rights: You have the right to an impartial decision-maker, to present witnesses, and to question evidence at the ALJ hearing. See 20 CFR 404.929–404.961 and 20 CFR 404.936–404.939.

Representation and fees are regulated

Representation before SSA is regulated by federal law. You may appoint an attorney or qualified non-attorney to represent you. See 20 CFR 404.1705. All fees charged by representatives must be approved by SSA and are governed by 42 U.S.C. § 406 and 20 CFR 404.1720 and 404.1725. Typically, representatives work on a contingency basis and only receive a fee if you recover past-due benefits, but any fee arrangement remains subject to SSA approval under these authorities.

Steps to Take After an SSDI Denial in Colorado, Colorado

1) Read your denial notice closely

The denial notice explains which issues led to the decision (e.g., insufficient work credits, impairment not severe, RFC allows other work) and provides your appeal deadline. Note both the date of the notice and the 5-day mailing presumption (unless you can prove later receipt). Organize your medical and vocational records before you file an appeal.

2) File a timely reconsideration request (if initial denial)

Request reconsideration within 60 days of receiving the notice. You can do this online or by submitting the appropriate SSA form. Add any missing medical records and clarify functional limitations. If you are in Colorado, your reconsideration will be reviewed by a different adjudicator than the one who handled your initial claim. See 20 CFR 404.909. Consider adding statements from treating clinicians that address specific work-related limitations (standing, walking, lifting, off-task time, absenteeism), with objective findings and references to imaging or lab results where applicable.

3) Prepare for an ALJ hearing (if reconsideration is denied)

Request your ALJ hearing within 60 days of the reconsideration denial. See 20 CFR 404.933(b). You will receive a Notice of Hearing with the time, place, and issues. Hearings for Colorado residents are scheduled by an SSA hearing office that serves the state; hearings may be in person, by video, or by telephone. Use this period to:

• Submit up-to-date medical records and ensure they cover the entire relevant period.
• Obtain supportive medical opinions that specifically address your RFC and expected absenteeism/off-task time.
• Prepare to explain gaps in treatment, daily activities, and any work attempts.
• Identify and submit any new evidence as early as possible, complying with SSA’s evidence submission rules.

4) Request Appeals Council review (if ALJ decision is unfavorable)

You generally have 60 days to request Appeals Council review after receiving the ALJ decision. See 20 CFR 404.968(a). The Appeals Council may deny review, remand your case to the ALJ, or issue its own decision. Provide specific reasons (e.g., errors of law, lack of substantial evidence, new and material evidence) that fit the criteria for review. Keep copies of all submissions.

5) File a federal court action (if Appeals Council denies or affirms)

Under 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), you generally have 60 days from receipt of the Appeals Council notice to file a civil action. Colorado residents typically file in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado. A federal judge reviews the administrative record to determine whether the decision is supported by substantial evidence and is consistent with law. This stage has formal rules and deadlines; legal representation is strongly recommended.

6) Ask for extensions if needed

If unavoidable circumstances prevent timely filing, request an extension as soon as possible and explain the reasons. SSA recognizes “good cause” in limited circumstances. See 20 CFR 404.911.

When to Seek Legal Help for SSDI Appeals in Colorado

Why representation can help

Claimants often improve their chances on appeal by working with an experienced representative who understands SSA’s medical-vocational rules, how to frame the alleged onset date, and how to build a persuasive record. Representatives can help identify missing records, obtain detailed functional assessments, prepare you for testimony, and raise legal issues (such as Step 5 errors or RFC formulation problems) that can be critical on review.

Representation rules and fees

Federal law governs representation in SSDI matters. You can appoint an attorney or qualified non-attorney. See 20 CFR 404.1705. All fees must be approved by SSA, and fee arrangements are governed by 42 U.S.C. § 406 and 20 CFR 404.1720 and 404.1725. Typically, fees are contingent on obtaining past-due benefits, and SSA reviews the fee agreement or fee petition to ensure compliance. You should ensure any representative clearly explains costs and the fee approval process.

Colorado-specific note on legal advice

Because SSDI is a federal program, an attorney licensed in any U.S. jurisdiction may represent you before SSA. However, for legal advice specific to your situation as a Colorado resident—and for any potential court filing in Colorado—consulting or retaining a Colorado-licensed attorney can be beneficial. For federal court litigation in Colorado, counsel must meet the admission requirements of the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado. If you are searching for a “colorado disability attorney” or “social security lawyers near me,” consider asking about the representative’s SSDI experience and familiarity with SSA proceedings affecting Colorado claimants.

Local Resources & Next Steps for Colorado, Colorado Claimants

Find your local SSA office

While the SSDI program is federal, services are provided locally. You can find the nearest SSA field office serving Colorado using the SSA Office Locator. Field offices handle applications, benefit questions, and certain appeals submissions. Appointments are recommended in many cases.

SSA Office Locator (Find a Local Field Office)

Appeal online or by mail

The fastest way to file an appeal is often online through SSA’s official portal. You can request reconsideration, hearing review, or Appeals Council review online, upload evidence, and track status. Always keep copies of your confirmations and submissions.

SSA Disability Appeals — Official Portal

Know the governing rules and timelines

For precise requirements and deadlines, rely on primary sources. At minimum, every Colorado claimant should review the regulations that cover reconsideration, hearing requests, Appeals Council review, and judicial review.

20 CFR 404.909 — Reconsideration20 CFR 404.968 — Appeals Council ReviewSocial Security Act § 205 (42 U.S.C. § 405) — Judicial Review

How hearings work for Colorado residents

Hearings are conducted by SSA’s Office of Hearings Operations. Colorado residents receive a Notice of Hearing that provides the date, format (in-person, video, or telephone), and issues to be decided. You have the right to submit evidence and statements before the hearing, to testify, and to question vocational or medical experts, if present. If you need to change the time or format for good cause, follow the instructions on your Notice of Hearing. See 20 CFR 404.936–404.939 for scheduling and hearing procedures.

Telephone and TTY options

SSA provides centralized phone support for all states, including Colorado. For general SSDI questions and appointment scheduling, you may contact SSA directly. TTY services are also available for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

• SSA National Phone: 1-800-772-1213
• SSA TTY: 1-800-325-0778

Building a Stronger SSDI Appeal Record

Prioritize comprehensive, relevant medical evidence

SSA’s rules emphasize the importance of medical evidence that is both consistent with the overall record and well-supported by objective findings. Consider the following:

• Update all treatment records through the date of your hearing or Appeals Council request.
• Request detailed medical source statements that address specific functional limits (sitting/standing tolerances, lifting/carrying capacity, postural limits, off-task time, absenteeism) and tie them to clinical findings.
• Explain treatment gaps and medication changes; if cost or access affected treatment adherence, include documentation where possible.
• Include third-party observations (family, friends, former coworkers) about your daily functioning—these can corroborate limitations.

Address vocational issues head-on

At Steps 4 and 5, vocational evidence plays a key role. Be ready to describe the physical and mental demands of your past relevant work and why you can no longer perform it. If the ALJ uses a vocational expert (VE), your representative can cross-examine on job requirements, transferable skills, and conflicts with your limitations. Ensure your RFC narrative matches the medical evidence and the realities of your symptoms.

Account for non-exertional limitations

Limitations such as pain, fatigue, reduced concentration, need for unscheduled breaks, or difficulty with social interaction can be disabling even when purely physical strength is not the main issue. Provide evidence from mental health providers, pain specialists, or neuropsychological evaluations as appropriate. Carefully document frequency and severity, not just diagnoses.

Maintain credibility and consistency

SSA adjudicators assess the consistency of your statements with the entire record. Be accurate in describing activities of daily living, symptom variability, and work attempts. If you engaged in a trial work effort or brief employment after onset, explain the circumstances and why it ended.

Frequently Asked Questions for Colorado Claimants

Can I appeal if I missed the 60-day deadline?

Possibly. You can request an extension by showing good cause for late filing. SSA considers specific reasons such as serious illness or circumstances outside your control. See 20 CFR 404.911.

Do I need a Colorado-based attorney?

Representation before SSA is governed by federal law, and an attorney licensed in any U.S. jurisdiction can represent you. However, if you want legal advice tailored to Colorado residents or anticipate filing in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado, working with a Colorado-licensed attorney may be advantageous.

What happens at a hearing?

An ALJ leads a relatively informal but structured proceeding. You will be sworn in, may present testimony, and may answer questions. A vocational expert may testify about jobs available given your RFC. You (or your representative) can submit evidence in advance and, when appropriate, question the VE. See 20 CFR 404.929–404.961.

What if SSA says I can do “other work”?

This is a Step 5 finding. You may challenge it by showing that the assessed RFC is not supported by substantial evidence, that the jobs identified do not match your limitations, or that key vocational assumptions are inconsistent with the medical record. Persuasive medical opinions and detailed symptom evidence can be critical.

Is there a deadline to file in federal court?

Yes. After the Appeals Council’s final action, you generally have 60 days from receipt of the notice to file a civil action under 42 U.S.C. § 405(g). See also 20 CFR 422.210.

Checklist: Your Colorado SSDI Appeal Action Plan

• Mark your deadlines: Calendar the 60-day limit for each stage and note the 5-day mailing presumption.
• Request and review your file: Understand the basis for denial and what evidence is missing.
• Update medical evidence: Submit complete, recent records and request focused medical source statements.
• Explain gaps and activities: Provide context for treatment interruptions and daily activity reports.
• Organize vocational proof: Document why past work and other work are not feasible given your limitations.
• Consider representation: Appoint an experienced SSDI representative per 20 CFR 404.1705.
• File appeal online: Use SSA’s appeals portal for efficiency and tracking.
• Confirm receipt: Keep copies of confirmations and every submission.

Key Authorities for SSDI Denials and Appeals

• Appeals stages and timelines: 20 CFR 404.900 et seq.; 20 CFR 404.909 (reconsideration), 20 CFR 404.933 (hearing), 20 CFR 404.968 (Appeals Council), and 20 CFR 422.210 (judicial review procedures).
• Disability definition and steps: 20 CFR 404.1509 (duration), 20 CFR 404.1520 (five-step evaluation), 20 CFR 404.1520c (medical opinion persuasiveness), 20 CFR 404.1545 (RFC).
• Evidence: 20 CFR 404.1512 (duty to submit evidence), 20 CFR 404.1519a (consultative exams).
• Representation and fees: 20 CFR 404.1705 (who may represent), 20 CFR 404.1720 and 404.1725 (fees); 42 U.S.C. § 406.
• Judicial review: Social Security Act § 205(g), 42 U.S.C. § 405(g).

Colorado, Colorado Next Steps and Contacts

Use the official SSA resources below to take action now:

Start Your SSDI Appeal Online (SSA)Find Your Local SSA Field Office (Office Locator)Read 20 CFR 404.909 (Reconsideration)Read 20 CFR 404.968 (Appeals Council)Read Social Security Act § 205 (42 U.S.C. § 405)

Final tips for Colorado residents

• Act quickly: The 60-day clock applies at each stage.
• Be thorough: Submit all relevant evidence and keep records organized.
• Be consistent: Ensure your statements align with the medical record.
• Consider help: A knowledgeable representative can frame issues and evidence effectively under SSA’s rules.

Legal Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws and regulations can change. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed Colorado attorney.

Call to Action

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