SSI & SSDI Denial Guide: Connecticut, Connecticut

Connecticut, Connecticut SSDI Denial and Appeal Guide

If you live in Connecticut and received a denial for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you are not alone—and you are not out of options. SSDI and SSI are federal programs, but how you navigate the appeals process, submit medical evidence, and meet strict deadlines will directly affect your case. This guide explains what to do after a denial, how to protect your rights at each stage of the Social Security Administration (SSA) appeal process, and how to find local resources in Connecticut that can support your claim. It slightly favors claimants by highlighting practical steps to strengthen your file, while remaining firmly grounded in federal law and regulation.

In Connecticut, as in every state, SSA relies on a state agency known as Disability Determination Services (DDS) to make the initial medical decision on your disability claim. If DDS denies your application, federal regulations give you a clear path to appeal—starting with reconsideration, then a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), review by the Appeals Council, and, if needed, a civil action in federal court. Each step has a strict time limit, and missing a deadline can end your claim unless SSA finds “good cause” for late filing. Understanding these stages—and preparing the strongest possible medical and vocational record at each—can make the difference between continued denials and an approved award.

Throughout this guide, you’ll find citations to the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and the Social Security Act. We include authoritative SSA resources so you can verify every rule for yourself. Use this as a roadmap to protect your benefits and to coordinate medical care, functional evidence, and representation. If you are searching for help online, remember to use precise terms such as “SSDI appeals,” “social security disability,” and “connecticut disability attorney” to find resources specific to Connecticut. For search optimization, this article also references the phrase “SSDI denial appeal connecticut connecticut.”

Understanding Your SSDI Rights

Who qualifies for SSDI and SSI

SSDI pays monthly benefits to people who have a qualifying disability and have worked long enough and recently enough to be insured under Social Security’s rules. SSI is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65+. The medical standard for adult disability is essentially the same under both programs: you must have a medically determinable impairment that has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death and prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). See Social Security Act § 223(d), codified at 42 U.S.C. § 423(d).

SSA evaluates adult claims using a five-step sequential process that considers: (1) current work activity; (2) severity of impairment; (3) whether your condition meets or equals a listed impairment; (4) your residual functional capacity (RFC) and past relevant work; and (5) your RFC, age, education, and work experience to determine if other work exists in significant numbers that you can perform. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520, 416.920. SSA defines SGA and evaluates earnings at 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1572–404.1574 and 416.972–416.974.

Your rights during the disability process

• Right to representation: You may appoint a qualified representative—an attorney or certain non-attorney representatives—to help at any level of the process. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1705, 416.1505.
• Right to review and submit evidence: You can review your file and submit medical and non-medical evidence at every stage. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.916, 404.929, 404.935, 416.1416, 416.1429, 416.1435.
• Duty to submit evidence: Claimants must inform SSA about or submit all evidence known to them that relates to whether they are disabled or blind. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1512(a), 416.912(a).
• Right to a hearing: If reconsideration is denied, you may request a de novo hearing before an ALJ. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.929–404.961, 416.1429–416.1461.
• Right to written decisions and appeal: You are entitled to written notices with reasons for decisions and appeal rights at each level. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.904–404.905, 416.1404–416.1405.

SSA also has obligations to develop your claim. While you bear the primary responsibility to submit evidence, SSA will make “every reasonable effort” to obtain your medical records and may schedule a consultative examination (CE) when needed to evaluate your impairments. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1512(b), 404.1517–404.1519t; 416.912(b), 416.917–416.919t.

Connecticut context

SSA disability claims filed in Connecticut are processed by the state’s DDS on behalf of SSA. Hearings are typically scheduled at SSA hearing offices serving Connecticut, and notices will specify whether your hearing is in person, by video, or by telephone. You can visit or contact SSA field offices in Connecticut communities such as Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, and Waterbury for filing assistance or to deliver documents. Always verify hours and addresses using SSA’s official Office Locator.

Find your Connecticut SSA field office (SSA Office Locator)## Common Reasons SSA Denies SSDI Claims

1) Not meeting the medical definition of disability

SSA may determine that your medical conditions do not prevent SGA for at least 12 continuous months, or that your limitations do not meet, medically equal, or functionally equal a listing. See Social Security Act § 223(d), 42 U.S.C. § 423(d); 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520, 416.920. Evidence must be objective and medically determinable—symptoms alone are not enough without clinical or laboratory findings. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1521, 416.921.

2) Insufficient medical evidence

SSA may deny claims when treatment records are missing key diagnostic findings, lack longitudinal treatment, or do not document functional limitations in work-related terms. Under 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1512 and 416.912, claimants must inform SSA about or submit all evidence that relates to disability. Gaps in care or incomplete records can undermine credibility regarding severity.

3) Work above substantial gainful activity (SGA)

Even with serious medical issues, if you are working at levels the SSA considers SGA, your claim can be denied at step 1. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1571–404.1574, 416.971–416.974. There are exceptions for unsuccessful work attempts, but these are narrowly defined and depend on the duration and reason work stopped.

4) Failure to cooperate or attend exams

If you do not provide requested forms, do not attend a scheduled consultative examination (CE), or cannot be reached, SSA may deny for failure to cooperate. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1518, 416.918. Always communicate proactively with SSA and DDS if you need to reschedule or need accommodations.

5) Prior denials without new evidence

When you file a new claim after a prior denial, SSA may apply res judicata if the period has already been adjudicated without new and material evidence. Appeals are generally the proper route if the denial is recent and within deadlines. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.957(c)(1), 416.1457(c)(1).

6) Non-severe or non-durational impairments

Impairments must be severe and expected to last at least 12 months. Short-term or well-controlled conditions that do not impose functional limitations may lead to denials. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1509, 404.1520(c), 416.909, 416.920(c).

7) Vocational denials at steps 4 and 5

SSA may find that you can perform past relevant work (step 4) or other work in the national economy (step 5) given your RFC, age, education, and experience. The Medical-Vocational Guidelines (the “grids”) apply in some cases. See 20 C.F.R. pt. 404, subpt. P, app. 2. Vocational expert testimony and accurate hypotheticals are often decisive at hearing.

Federal Legal Protections & Regulations

Core statutes and regulations

• Definition of disability: Social Security Act § 223(d), 42 U.S.C. § 423(d).
• Judicial review: Social Security Act § 205(g), 42 U.S.C. § 405(g) (60-day period to file a civil action after the final decision).
• Administrative appeals framework: 20 C.F.R. part 404, subpart J (Title II SSDI), and part 416, subpart N (Title XVI SSI).
• Evidence and development: 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1512, 416.912; consultative exams at §§ 404.1517–404.1519t and 416.917–416.919t.
• Appeals Council review: 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.967–404.984, 416.1467–416.1484; new and material evidence standard at 20 C.F.R. § 404.970(a)(5) and § 416.1470(a)(5).

Time limits (appeal “statute of limitations”)

• Reconsideration: 60 days from receipt of the initial determination to request reconsideration. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.909(a)(1), 416.1409. SSA presumes you receive notices 5 days after the date on the notice unless you show otherwise. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.901; § 416.1401.
• ALJ hearing: 60 days from receipt of the reconsideration determination to request a hearing. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.933(b)(1), 416.1433(b)(1).
• Appeals Council: 60 days from receipt of the ALJ decision to request review. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.968(a)(1), 416.1468(a).
• Federal court: 60 days from receipt of the Appeals Council’s decision or denial of review to file a civil action. See Social Security Act § 205(g), 42 U.S.C. § 405(g); 20 C.F.R. § 422.210(c).
• Good cause for late filing: SSA may extend time limits for good cause, considering specific circumstances. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.911, 416.1411.

What proof SSA considers

SSA weighs objective medical evidence, medical opinions, prior administrative medical findings, and other evidence from medical and non-medical sources. For claims filed on or after March 27, 2017, SSA evaluates medical opinions under the “supportability” and “consistency” factors rather than giving “controlling weight” to any particular source. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520c, 416.920c. SSA will consider your longitudinal record, clinical signs, imaging, labs, treatment history, and daily activities. Functional evidence—such as detailed statements from treating providers describing specific work-related limitations—can be critical to establish RFC limits (e.g., sitting, standing, lifting, attendance, off-task time).

Hearing and review

ALJ hearings are non-adversarial. The ALJ will admit exhibits, take testimony, and may hear from a vocational expert (VE) or medical expert (ME). You can question these experts. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.929–404.961; 416.1429–416.1461. The Appeals Council can grant review, deny review (making the ALJ decision the final agency decision), or remand. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.967–404.984; 416.1467–416.1484. If you file a civil action, the federal court reviews the final decision for legal error and whether it is supported by “substantial evidence” on the record as a whole. See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g).

Steps to Take After an SSDI Denial

1) Read the denial notice carefully

Your notice explains the medical and vocational reasons for denial and states the appeal deadline. Mark the 60-day deadline on your calendar and assume the 5-day mailing rule unless you can show the actual date of receipt. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.901, 404.909; 416.1401, 416.1409. If you disagree, start preparing your reconsideration immediately.

2) File your appeal on time (and keep proof)

• Reconsideration: File within 60 days of receiving the initial determination. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.909(a)(1).
• Hearing request: If reconsideration is denied, you have 60 days to request an ALJ hearing. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.933(b)(1).
• Appeals Council: 60 days to request review after the ALJ decision. See 20 C.F.R. § 404.968(a).
• Federal court: 60 days to file a civil action after the final decision. See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g); 20 C.F.R. § 422.210(c).

SSA accepts online appeals for many cases. Keep copies of everything you submit and confirmations of online filings or date-stamped receipts from SSA offices in Connecticut.

3) Strengthen your medical record

• Update treating records: Request complete records from all Connecticut and out-of-state providers, including primary care, specialists, therapy, imaging, and labs, going back at least 12 months before your alleged onset date, and continuing through the present.
• Provider opinions on function: Ask treating providers to describe specific, work-related limitations (e.g., how long you can sit/stand, how much you can lift, expected absences). SSA evaluates opinion persuasiveness under 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520c, 416.920c.
• Compliance and consistency: Consistent treatment and objective findings support credibility; if you have gaps due to access issues, document reasons (e.g., transportation, insurance changes, clinical closures).
• Consultative exams (CEs): Attend all scheduled exams. If the appointment time or location is unworkable, contact the scheduling entity before the date to reschedule. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1517–404.1519t.

4) Translate daily challenges into work terms

SSA’s focus is work-related function. Keep a symptom and activity log. Describe flare-ups, need to lie down, off-task time, reduced pace, lifting limits, and any assistive devices. Third-party statements from family or former supervisors in Connecticut can corroborate real-world limitations. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1513(a)(4), 416.913(a)(4) (other evidence).

5) Prepare for the hearing

• Submit evidence early: Evidence should be submitted at least 5 business days before the hearing, unless you can show good cause. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.935, 416.1435.
• Vocational testimony: Be ready to explain why VE hypothetical jobs are inconsistent with your actual RFC. Address issues like pace, attendance, manipulative limits, and need for breaks.
• Past work analysis: Clarify the exertional and skill demands of your past jobs in Connecticut or elsewhere, including how they were performed and as generally performed in the national economy.
• Consistency and credibility: Align testimony with medical records. If your symptoms vary, explain variability and triggers.

6) Appeals Council strategy

After an unfavorable ALJ decision, you can request Appeals Council review. New evidence must be new, material, and related to the period on or before the ALJ decision, and there must be a reasonable probability it would change the outcome. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.970(a)(5), 416.1470(a)(5). Identify legal or factual errors such as misapplication of the Listings, improper rejection of medical opinions under 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520c, inadequate RFC findings, or vocational errors (e.g., conflicts with the Dictionary of Occupational Titles not addressed).

7) Federal court review

If the Appeals Council denies review or issues an unfavorable decision, you have 60 days from receipt to file a civil action in the appropriate U.S. District Court. The court reviews whether the decision is supported by substantial evidence and whether proper legal standards were applied. Relief may include remand for a new hearing. See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g).

When to Seek Legal Help for SSDI Appeals

You have the right to proceed on your own, but experienced representation can help develop medical and vocational evidence, meet deadlines, and cross-examine experts. Representatives before SSA must meet qualifications and have their fees approved by SSA. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1705, 404.1720; 416.1505, 416.1520. Fees are generally contingent and subject to SSA approval under 42 U.S.C. § 406(a), which regulates fees for representation at the administrative level.

If you want a Connecticut disability attorney to represent you in a hearing or federal court, ensure they are in good standing and experienced in Social Security practice. For SSA administrative proceedings, an attorney licensed in any U.S. jurisdiction or a qualified non-attorney representative can represent you. However, for any related matters in Connecticut state courts, a lawyer must be licensed to practice law in Connecticut under the state’s admission rules. Ask prospective representatives about their experience with cases heard in Connecticut, their process for gathering functional opinions, how they approach VE testimony, and how they handle evidence deadlines under 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.935 and 416.1435.

Advantages of early representation

• Record development: Representatives help identify missing evidence, obtain detailed functional assessments, and prepare you for testimony.
• Issue spotting: Trained advocates flag errors in RFC analysis, Listings evaluation, and vocational findings for Appeals Council or court review.
• Deadline control: Systems to track the 60-day time limits help avoid dismissals for late filing.

Local Resources & Next Steps in Connecticut

Where to file and get help locally

Connecticut has multiple SSA field offices, including in Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, and Waterbury. Use the Office Locator to confirm addresses, hours, and service options (in-person, phone, or online). For hearing locations, SSA’s notice will identify whether your appearance will be in person or by video/telephone. Keep copies of any receipts or confirmations provided by local offices when you submit documents.

Use SSA’s Office Locator for Connecticut field offices### Coordinating medical care in Connecticut

Your treating providers are central to your case. Ask your Connecticut clinicians to document objective findings and tie those findings to specific work-related limitations. Regular follow-up, consistent medication use when prescribed, and referrals to specialty care can create a longitudinal record that supports disability under SSA rules. If you face barriers to care (e.g., cost, transport), keep written notes explaining why; SSA considers reasons for gaps when evaluating consistency and credibility.

Practical next steps

• Mark your deadline: Count 60 days plus the 5-day mailing presumption from the date on your denial; calculate the last day to appeal. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.901, 404.909(a)(1).
• File the appeal online or at a Connecticut SSA office: Keep proof of filing.
• Collect and submit evidence: Request all medical records; obtain functional opinions; submit evidence early, observing the 5-day rule for hearings. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.935, 416.1435.
• Prepare your testimony: Draft a concise statement of daily limitations, pain levels, side effects, and how often you would be off task or absent from work.
• Consider counsel: Consult with a Connecticut disability attorney or qualified representative about strategy, evidence, and deadlines.

Key SSA Appeals Stages and Connecticut Considerations

Reconsideration

At reconsideration, a different adjudicator at DDS reviews your file. This is your chance to correct inaccuracies, update records, and add functional assessments. Many denials are affirmed at this level because the record is not materially stronger than before; make yours the exception by supplying new, relevant medical and functional evidence. Deadline: 60 days from receipt of the initial determination. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.909(a)(1), 416.1409.

Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing

The ALJ conducts a de novo review. You can present evidence, call witnesses, and question SSA’s experts. Be prepared to address the Listings, RFC, past work, and transferable skills. Submit evidence at least 5 business days before the hearing absent good cause. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.929–404.961, 404.935; 416.1429–416.1461, 416.1435.

Appeals Council

Focus on specific legal and factual errors. If you have new and material evidence that relates to the period before the ALJ decision and could change the outcome, submit it with a statement explaining why it was not available earlier. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.970(a)(5), 416.1470(a)(5). Deadline: 60 days from receipt of the ALJ decision. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.968(a)(1), 416.1468(a).

Federal court

File a civil action within 60 days of receipt of the Appeals Council decision or denial of review. See 42 U.S.C. § 405(g); 20 C.F.R. § 422.210(c). The court may remand for a new hearing if it finds legal error or that the decision is not supported by substantial evidence.

Evidence Tips That Often Help Connecticut Claimants

• Specific functional limits beat general statements: “Cannot lift more than 10 pounds, must elevate legs 3–4 times daily for 30 minutes, off-task 20%” is more helpful than “disabled.”
• Longitudinal records: Connecticut claimants who maintain steady care with consistent findings often have stronger cases than those with sporadic visits.
• Side effects and comorbidities: Document medication side effects and how multiple impairments combine to reduce capacity.
• Work history details: Provide accurate job descriptions and physical/mental demands. Misclassifying past work can lead to inappropriate denials at step 4.
• Pain and mental health: Use clinical scales, therapy notes, and objective indicators where available; correlate symptoms with functional impacts.

Frequently Cited Regulations and Statutes (Quick Reference)

• Five-step evaluation: 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520, 416.920
• Definition of disability: 42 U.S.C. § 423(d)
• Duty to submit evidence: 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1512(a), 416.912(a)
• Hearing rights: 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.929–404.961; 416.1429–416.1461
• Appeals Council review: 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.967–404.984; 416.1467–416.1484
• New and material evidence: 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.970(a)(5), 416.1470(a)(5)
• Federal court review: 42 U.S.C. § 405(g); 20 C.F.R. § 422.210(c)
• Deadlines and good cause: 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.909(a)(1), 404.933(b)(1), 404.968(a)(1), 404.911; 416.1409, 416.1433(b)(1), 416.1468(a), 416.1411

Connecticut-Specific Practical Notes

• Field offices: SSA operates multiple field offices throughout Connecticut, including in Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, and Waterbury. Always verify addresses and hours using SSA’s Office Locator.
• DDS role: Connecticut’s DDS makes initial and reconsideration medical determinations for SSA. Promptly respond to DDS requests and keep your contact information updated to avoid missed deadlines or examinations.
• Hearing format: Your hearing may be in person, by online video, or by telephone, as specified in your Notice of Hearing. Follow the instructions closely to confirm your participation and submit evidence on time.
• Language access: SSA provides free interpreters upon request for interviews, hearings, and other interactions. Ask SSA to note your language needs in the record as soon as possible.

FAQs for Connecticut Claimants

Can I work while appealing?

You may have limited work activity, but earnings at or above SGA levels can result in denial. SSA also evaluates whether work activity is “substantial and gainful” even if part-time. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1572–404.1574. If you try to work but stop within a short period because of your impairments, this may be considered an unsuccessful work attempt depending on the facts.

What if I missed the 60-day deadline?

Request an extension and explain why—SSA may accept late filings for good cause. See 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.911, 416.1411. Provide documentation, such as hospitalization records or evidence of delayed mail delivery.

Do I need a Connecticut disability attorney?

You are not required to have an attorney, but representation can improve record development and hearing preparation. For SSA proceedings, attorneys licensed in any U.S. jurisdiction and certain qualified non-attorneys may represent you (20 C.F.R. § 404.1705). For any Connecticut court matters, hire an attorney licensed in Connecticut.

What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?

SSDI is based on work credits and insured status; SSI is needs-based. Both apply the same medical standard for adult disability. Many claimants file “concurrent” SSDI and SSI claims if they meet both financial and insured-status rules. See 20 C.F.R. parts 404 and 416.

Authoritative Resources

SSA: How to Appeal a DecisioneCFR: 20 C.F.R. Part 404, Subpart J (Administrative Review Process)Social Security Act § 205(g), 42 U.S.C. § 405(g) (Judicial Review)Social Security Act § 223(d), 42 U.S.C. § 423(d) (Definition of Disability)SSA Office Locator (Find Connecticut Offices)

Legal Disclaimer

This guide provides general information for Connecticut residents and is not legal advice. Laws and regulations change, and individual facts matter. Consult a licensed Connecticut attorney or qualified representative about your specific situation.

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