As many Atlanta residents know, applying for Social Security disability benefits is often a stressful and confusing process. And even after you have done all of the legwork, most people are still denied benefits the first time around. According to recent reports, nearly 860,000 people appealed claims that had been denied. That is the largest number of appeals ever.

What this could mean is that more people than ever are in serious need of help because a disability, illness or other condition has left them unable to work. Especially in a struggling economy, monthly Social Security disability checks can be extremely important for these people.

While being denied Social Security Disability Insurance the first time around can be extremely frustrating, it is important to remember that you can always appeal a decision. Experienced Atlanta Social Security disability attorneys understand how important these benefits are to people who are unable to work. For those who have families to support, they may be even more important.

In order for an appeal to be approved, it must in some way demonstrate that the judge made a mistake in his or her original decision. Appealing a decision can have three basic outcomes. First, there is the possibility that the Appeals Council will agree with the judge's original decision. However, the Appeals Council may also decide to send the case back to the first judge, providing instructions alongside it. Such instructions may convince a judge to accept your application. Finally, the Appeals Council may agree with your appeal and reverse the first the decision to deny you benefits.

It is no secret that the SSDI application and appeals process is complicated. However, it is important to keep in mind that even if your claim has been denied, your fight is not over.

Source: The Houston Chronicle, "Social Security Disability Appeals Reached New Record in 2011," Feb. 7, 2012