The SSA SSA-561-U2 form, commonly known as the Request for Reconsideration, serves as a critical step for individuals seeking to challenge a decision made about their Social Security benefits. It provides a structured pathway for applicants to have their case reviewed by someone who was not involved in the original decision. To start the reconsideration process and potentially alter the outcome of your Social Security benefits decision, click the button below to fill out the form.
If you or someone you know has ever received a decision from the Social Security Administration (SSA) that didn't seem quite right, whether it was about disability benefits, retirement benefits, or any other SSA-related matter, it's important to know that decisions aren't set in stone. The SSA SSA-561-U2 form, often simply referred to as the SSA-561, is a crucial tool in this scenario. This form serves as a request for reconsideration, a first step for those looking to appeal an SSA decision. It's the way to say, "Please, take another look," regarding any adverse decision, be it a denial of benefits, an overpayment notice, or something else entirely. Understanding and completing this form correctly can be a lifeline for correcting decisions or misunderstandings that can significantly impact one's life. Navigating through the process can seem daunting, as it involves gathering evidence, adhering to deadlines, and sometimes, preparing for a hearing. However, with the right approach and a clear understanding of what the SSA-561-U2 form entails, individuals have the opportunity to present their case anew, ensuring that their rights are recognized and protected by the Social Security Administration.
Form SSA-561-U2 (12-2016) uf (12-2016)
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Prior Edition May Be Used Until Exhausted
OMB No. 0960-0622
Social Security Administration
REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION
NAME OF CLAIMANT:
CLAIMANT SSN:
CLAIM NUMBER: (If different than SSN)
ISSUE BEING APPEALED: (Specify if retirement, disability, hospital or medical, SSI, SVB, overpayment, etc.)
I do not agree with the Social Security Administration's (SSA) determination and request reconsideration. My reasons are:
SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI) OR SPECIAL VETERANS BENEFITS (SVB)
RECONSIDERATION ONLY
THREE WAYS TO APPEAL
I want to appeal your determination about my claim for SSI or SVB. I have read about the three ways to appeal.
I have checked the box below:
CASE REVIEW - You can pick this kind of appeal in all cases. You can give us more facts to add to your file. Then we will decide your case again. You do not meet with the person who decides your case.
INFORMAL CONFERENCE - You can pick this kind of appeal in all SSI cases except for medical issues. In SVB cases, you can pick this kind of appeal only if we are stopping or lowering your SVB payment. You will meet with a person who will decide your case. You can tell that person why you think you are right. You can give us more facts to help prove you are right. You can bring other people to help explain your case.
FORMAL CONFERENCE - You can pick this kind of appeal only if we are stopping or lowering your SSI or SVB payment. This meeting is like an informal conference, but we can also get people to come in and help prove you are right. We can do this even if they do not want to help you. You can question these people at your meeting.
CONTACT INFORMATION
CLAIMANT SIGNATURE - OPTIONAL:
NAME OF CLAIMANT'S REPRESENTATIVE: (If any)
MAILING ADDRESS:
CITY:
STATE:
ZIP CODE:
TELEPHONE NUMBER:
DATE:
(Include area code)
TO BE COMPLETED BY SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
1. HAS INITIAL DETERMINATION
Yes
No
FIELD OFFICE DEVELOPMENT (GN 03102.300)
BEEN MADE?
NO FURTHER DEVELOPMENT REQUIRED
2. IS THIS REQUEST FILED TIMELY?
REQUIRED DEVELOPMENT ATTACHED
(If "NO", attach claimant's explanation for delay.
REQUIRED DEVELOPMENT PENDING, WILL
Refer to GN 03102.125)
FORWARD OR ADVISE STATUS WITHIN 30 DAYS
SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE ADDRESS AND DATE
SSI CASES ONLY - GOLDBERG KELLY (GK)
APPEAL RECEIVED:
(SI 02301.310) RECIPIENT APPEALED AN ADVERSE
ACTION:
WITHIN 10 DAYS AFTER RECEIVING THE
ADVANCE NOTICE;
AFTER THE 10-DAY PERIOD AND GOOD CAUSE
EXISTS FOR EXTENDING THE TIME LIMIT
PAYMENT CONTINUATION APPLIES AND INPUT
MADE TO SYSTEM
NOTE: Take or mail the completed original to your local Social Security office, the Veterans Affairs Regional Office in Manila, or any U.S. Foreign Service post and keep a copy for your records.
Claims Folder
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ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS THAT ARE INITIAL DETERMINATIONS
(See GN03101.070, GN03101.080, and SI04010.010)
NOTE: These lists cover the vast majority of administrative actions that are initial determinations. However, they are not all inclusive.
Title II
1.Entitlement or continuing entitlement to benefits;
2.Reentitlement to benefits;
3.The amount of benefit;
4.A recomputation of benefit;
5.A reduction in disability benefits because benefits under a worker's compensation law were also received;
6.A deduction from benefits on account of work;
7.A deduction from disability benefits because of claimant's refusal to accept rehabilitation services;
8.Termination of benefits;
9.Penalty deductions imposed because of failure to report certain events;
10.Any overpayment or underpayment of benefits;
11.Whether an overpayment of benefits must be repaid;
12.How an underpayment of benefits due a deceased person will be paid;
13.The establishment or termination of a period of disability;
14.A revision of an earnings record;
15.Whether the payment of benefits will be made, on the claimant's behalf to a representative payee, u unless the claimant is under age 18 or legally incompetent;
16.Who will act as the payee if we determine that representative payment will be made;
17.An offset of benefits because the claimant previously received Supplemental Security Income payments for the same period;
18.Whether completion of or continuation for a specified period of time in an appropriate v vocational rehabilitation program will significantly increase the likelihood that the claimant will not have to return to the disability benefit rolls and thus, whether the claimant's benefits may be continued even though the claimant is not disabled;
19.Nonpayment of benefits because of claimant's confinement for more than 30 continuous days in a jail, prison, or other correctional institution for conviction of a criminal offense;
20.Nonpayment of benefits because of claimant's confinement for more than 30 continuous days in a mental health institution or other medical facility because a court found the individual was not guilty for reason of insanity; a court found that he/she was incompetent to stand trial or was unable to stand trial for some other similar mental defect; or, a court found that he/she was sexually dangerous.
Title XVI
1.Eligibility for, or the amount of, Supplemental Security Income benefits;
2.Suspension, reduction, or termination of Supplemental Security Income benefits;
3.Whether an overpayment of benefits must be repaid;
4.Whether payments will be made, on claimant's behalf to a representative payee, unless the claimant is under age 18, legally incompetent, or determined to be a drug addict or alcoholic;
5.Who will act as payee if we determine that representative payment will be made;
6.Imposing penalties for failing to report important information;
7.Drug addiction or alcoholism;
8.Whether claimant is eligible for special SSI cash benefits;
9.Whether claimant is eligible for special SSI eligibility status;
10.Claimant's disability; and
11.Whether completion of or continuation for a specified period of time in an appropriate vocational rehabilitation program will significantly increase the likelihood that claimant will not have to return to the disability benefit rolls and thus, whether claimant's benefits may be continued even though he or she is not disabled.
NOTE: Every redetermination which gives an individual the right of further review constitutes an initial determination.
Title VIII (See VB 02501.035)
1.Meeting or failing to meet the qualifying and/or entitlement factors for special veterans benefits (SVB);
2.Reduction, suspension or termination of SVB payments;
3.Applicability of a disqualifying event prior to SVB entitlement;
4.Administrative actions in SVB cases similar to those listed under Title II-items 3, 4, 10, 11 & 16.
Title XVIII
1.Entitlement to hospital insurance benefits and to enrollment for supplementary medical insurance benefits;
2.Disallowance (including denial of application for HIB and denial of application for enrollment for SMIB);
3.Termination of benefits (including termination of entitlement to HI and SMI).
4.Initial determinations regarding Medicare Part B income-related premium subsidy reductions.
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Claimant
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HOW TO APPEAL YOUR SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI)
OR SPECIAL VETERANS BENEFIT (SVB) DECISION
Now that you picked the kind of appeal that fits your case, fill out this form or we'll help you fill it out. You can have a lawyer, friend, or someone else help you with your appeal. There are groups that can help you with your appeal. Some can give you a free lawyer. We can give you the names of these groups.
NOTE: DON'T FILL OUT THIS FORM IF WE SAID WE'LL STOP YOUR DISABILITY CHECK FOR MEDICAL REASONS OR BECAUSE YOU'RE NO LONGER BLIND. WE'LL GIVE YOU THE RIGHT FORM (SSA-789-U4) FOR YOUR APPEAL.
The information on this form is authorized by regulation (20 CFR 404.907 - 404.921 and 416.1407 - 416.1421) and Public Law 106-169 (section 809(a)(1) of section 251(a)). While your response to these questions is voluntary, the Social Security Administration cannot reconsider the decision on this claim unless the information is furnished.
Privacy Act Statement
Request for Reconsideration
Sections 205, 702(a)(5), 809(a), 809(b), 1631, 1633, and 1869(b) allow us to collect this information. Furnishing us this information is voluntary. However, failing to provide all or part of the information may prevent us from re- evaluating the decision on your claim.
We will use the information to determine your eligibility for benefits and administer our programs. We may also share your information for the following purposes, called routine uses:
1.To third party contacts in situations where the party to be contacted has, or is expected to have, information relating to the individual's capability to manage his/her affairs or his/her eligibility for or entitlement to benefits under the Social Security program.
2.To contractors and other Federal agencies, as necessary, for the purpose of assisting the Social Security Administration in the efficient administration of its programs.
3.To the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), for the purpose of administering Medicare Part A, Part B, Medicare Advantage Part C, and Medicare Part D, including but not limited to: Medicare Pa rt C enrollment and premium collection processes; Part D enrollment and premium collection processes; Medicare Part B premium reduction based on participation in a Part C plan; and Medicare Part B enrollment and income-related monthly adjustment amount determinations, appeals of determinations, and premium collections.
In addition, we may share this information in accordance with the Privacy Act and other Federal laws. For example, where authorized, we may use and disclose this information in computer matching programs, in which our records are compared with other records to establish or verify a person's eligibility for Federal benefit programs and for repayment of incorrect or delinquent debts under these programs.
A list of additional routine uses is available in our Privacy Act System of Records Notices (SORNs). There are several SORNs that govern the collection of this information, including 60-0089, entitled Claims Folder System, and 60-0321, entitled Medicare Database File. Additional information and a full listing of all our SORNs and applicable routine uses are available on our website at www.socialsecurity.gov/foia/bluebook.
Paperwork Reduction Act Statement - This information collection meets the requirements of 44 U.S.C. § 3507, as amended by Section 2 of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. You do not need to answer these questions unless we display a valid Office of Management and Budget control number. We estimate that it will take about 8 minutes to read the instructions, gather the facts, and answer the questions.
SEND THE COMPLETED FORM TO YOUR LOCAL SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE. The office is listed under U.S. Government agencies in your telephone directory or you may call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). You may send comments on our time estimate above to: SSA, 6401 Security Blvd., Baltimore, MD 21235-6401. Send only comments relating to our time estimate to this address, not the
completed form.
When you disagree with a decision made by the Social Security Administration (SSA), you may need to fill out and submit form SSA-561-U2, also known as a Request for Reconsideration. This process allows you the opportunity to have your case reviewed again. Knowing how to properly fill out this form is crucial for ensuring that your request is processed efficiently. Follow these steps carefully to complete the form accurately.
Once the form is fully completed, it should be submitted to the Social Security office that processed your initial application. This can be done either in person or via mail. After your form is received, SSA will review your case and make a decision on reconsideration. During this time, they may request additional information from you to help make their decision. Be sure to respond promptly to any requests from SSA to avoid delays in the reconsideration process.
The SSA SSA-561-U2 form, also known as the Request for Reconsideration form, is used to ask the Social Security Administration (SSA) to take another look at a decision they made. People typically use this form if they do not agree with the SSA’s decision regarding their benefits, such as if the SSA decided to reduce, deny, or stop benefits.
There are several ways to get the SSA SSA-561-U2 form. You can:
When filling out the SSA SSA-561-U2 form, you will need to provide:
After filling out the SSA SSA-561-U2 form, it can be submitted in one of the following ways:
It’s important to keep a copy of the form for your records.
The time it takes for the SSA to review a reconsideration request can vary. It depends on factors such as the type of decision being reconsidered and the need for additional evidence. Generally, it can take from a few weeks to several months for the SSA to make a new decision.
Yes, if you need help filling out the SSA SSA-561-U2 form, you have several options:
Not providing enough detail: A frequent mistake is giving vague or incomplete explanations about the dispute. It’s crucial to provide comprehensive details to explain why the decision should be reconsidered.
Skipping questions: Some people leave questions blank if they're unsure or if they think they're not applicable. However, every question is important. If a question does not apply, the correct approach is to mark it as "N/A" (not applicable) rather than leaving it blank.
Using incorrect information: Entering outdated or incorrect data can lead to significant delays. Double-check personal details, Social Security numbers, and any other information provided to ensure accuracy.
Forgetting to sign and date the form: An unsigned form is incomplete in the eyes of the administration. Always remember to sign and date the form before submission to validate the request.
Failing to attach necessary documentation: The SSA-561-U2 form often requires accompanying documentation to support your claim or appeal. Overlooking the attachment of necessary evidence or documents can weaken your case.
Incorrect use of the form: This form is specifically designed for appealing decisions regarding Social Security benefits. Using it for other purposes or to request information can lead to confusion and misprocessing.
Not making a copy: Before submitting any official document, making a copy for personal records is crucial. This ensures that you have a backup in case the original gets lost or additional disputes arise.
When approaching the SSA-561-U2 form, attention to detail is key. Avoiding these common errors can save time and help achieve a more favorable outcome in the appeal process.
When individuals find themselves needing to contest a decision made by the Social Security Administration (SSA), the SSA-561-U2 form is often the initial step in the process. This form is used for requesting a reconsideration of the SSA's decision. However, to effectively navigate the appeals process, several additional forms and documents may be required to support the reconsideration request. These materials play a critical role in providing a comprehensive overview of an individual's situation, reinforcing the need for a decision to be reevaluated.
In conclusion, while the SSA-561-U2 form is a critical component of initiating the appeals process with the Social Security Administration, it is often just the first step. Understanding and preparing the additional forms and documents listed can significantly enhance an individual's ability to successfully navigate the appeals process, ultimately improving their chances of securing the benefits they believe they are entitled to.
HA-501-U5 (Request for Hearing by Administrative Law Judge): Similar to the SSA-561-U2, which is used to request reconsideration of a decision, the HA-501-U5 form is used when individuals decide to appeal a Social Security Administration (SSA) decision that was not in their favor. Both forms are steps in the procedure for individuals seeking to contest decisions made by the SSA.
SSA-827 (Authorization to Disclose Information to the Social Security Administration): This form, like the SSA-561-U2, is essential in the processing of an individual's claim or appeal. The SSA-827 allows the SSA to obtain medical and other information to support a claim, whereas the SSA-561-U2 is used to formally dispute a decision made by the SSA.
SSA-3441 (Disability Report - Appeal): The SSA-3441 is closely related to the SSA-561-U2 as it is specifically used during the appeal process when an individual disagrees with a decision regarding disability benefits. This form provides updated medical and contact information during the appeals process, complementing the request for reconsideration or appeal indicated in the SSA-561-U2.
SSA-789 (Request for Reconsideration - Disability Cessation): This form is used specifically for appealing decisions that terminate disability benefits. Similar to the SSA-561-U2 form, the SSA-789 allows individuals to contest a cessation decision, demonstrating both forms' critical roles in the appeals process for SSA decisions.
SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card): Although used for different purposes, the SS-5 form shares a similarity with the SSA-561-U2 in that it is foundational for individuals dealing with Social Security matters. The SS-5 is necessary for obtaining a Social Security number, which is crucial for any communication or appeal process with the SSA, including submitting an SSA-561-U2 form.
SSA-1696 (Appointment of Representative): This form is important for those wishing to have representation during their dealings with the SSA, similar to how the SSA-561-U2 form is used by individuals to initiate an appeal. With the SSA-1696, individuals can designate a representative to act on their behalf in all proceedings, including submitting an SSA-561-U2 form.
SSA-820 (Work Activity Report - Employee): Like the SSA-561-U2, the SSA-820 form is used in the context of disability benefits. It is specifically utilized to provide information about any work activity by a claimant, which could affect the outcome of an appeal made with an SSA-561-U2 if work status or capability is in question.
SSA-3368 (Disability Report - Adult): Initially used in the disability benefits application process, the SSA-3368 shares its fundamental aim with the SSA-561-U2: to provide the SSA with necessary information for making a decision. While the SSA-3368 is for new claims, the SSA-561-U2 is for reconsideration, both crucial at different steps for individuals seeking benefits.
SSA-11 (Request to Be Selected as Payee): This form, while focused on the selection of a payee, is akin to the SSA-561-U2 in its procedural nature for changing or establishing a key aspect of one's Social Security record. Both forms play significant roles in managing how individuals interact with the SSA on personal matters.
SSA-454-BK (Continuing Disability Review Report): The SSA-454-BK and the SSA-561-U2 form are part of the ongoing relationship and communication individuals have with the SSA regarding disability benefits. The SSA-454-BK is used to report current medical conditions as part of a review process, potentially affecting the continuation of benefits and relating to the appeal process initiated by the SSA-561-U2 form.
Filling out the SSA-561-U2 form, known as the Request for Reconsideration, is a crucial step if you wish to appeal a decision made by the Social Security Administration (SSA). To ensure your appeal is properly processed, it's important to follow these guidelines carefully.
Do:
Don't:
Navigating the complexities of Social Security benefits can often feel overwhelming. The SSA SSA-561-U2 form, a key document in the process, is frequently misunderstood. Here, we aim to clarify some of the most common misconceptions about this form, offering a clearer path for those needing to engage with it.
The SSA SSA-561-U2 form is only for retirement benefits. Actually, this form is not limited to retirement benefits. It is used for appealing decisions regarding a variety of Social Security benefits, including disability, survivors, and supplemental income. This means that if you disagree with a decision made about your benefit amount or if you've been denied benefits, this form is a critical step in requesting a reconsideration of that decision.
Filling out the form is highly complex. While government forms can indeed be daunting, the SSA SSA-561-U2 is designed to be straightforward. The form asks for basic information about the applicant and the decision they wish to appeal. Clear instructions are provided, but it's always a good idea to seek assistance if you're unsure about any part of the process.
You can wait indefinitely to submit an appeal. This is a critical misunderstanding. Appeals must be filed within 60 days from the date you received the decision letter. Waiting too long to submit your appeal can result in missing the window to have your case reconsidered, although there are a few exceptions for late submissions if you have a valid reason.
Submitting an appeal guarantees benefits approval. Submitting an SSA SSA-561-U2 form starts the appeals process but does not guarantee a favorable outcome. Your appeal will lead to a reconsideration of your case, during which the evidence and circumstances will be reviewed again. It's an opportunity to present new information or clarify existing details, but approval is not guaranteed.
An attorney is required to fill out the form. You do not need an attorney to fill out the SSA SSA-561-U2 form. While having legal representation can be beneficial, especially in complex cases, individuals often complete and submit the appeal on their own. If you feel overwhelmed, organizations and advocates are available to help guide you through the process without legal fees.
Once you submit the form, no further action is needed. After submitting your appeal, you may be required to provide additional information or documentation. It's important to stay engaged with the process, respond to any requests from the Social Security Administration (SSA), and attend any scheduled hearings.
The form is the final step in the appeals process. In fact, the SSA SSA-561-U2 form is just the beginning. It's the first step in appealing a decision, but if you're not satisfied with the outcome of the reconsideration, further appeal levels exist. These can include a hearing by an administrative law judge, a review by the Appeals Council, and even a case in federal court.
Understanding the SSA SSA-561-U2 form and its role in the appeals process is crucial for anyone engaging with Social Security benefits. By dispelling these misconceptions, individuals are better equipped to navigate the system, advocate for their rights, and move forward with their appeals with confidence.
If you need to request a reconsideration for a Social Security decision, the SSA-561-U2 form is the correct document to use. Here are seven key takeaways to keep in mind when filling out and using this form.
By following these tips, you can make sure your request for reconsideration is clear, complete, and submitted properly, helping to ensure a smoother review process.
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