Issues this guide separates
Use this guide to organize prior file, new evidence, onset date, and timing questions.
| Issue | What to verify |
|---|---|
| Use This Guide To Organize Prior File | Document Use this guide to organize prior file with dates, source records, and a short explanation of why it matters to the current disability issue. |
| New Evidence | Put new evidence in date order and identify what question the record helps answer. |
| Onset Date | Document onset date with dates, source records, and a short explanation of why it matters to the current disability issue. |
| Timing Questions | Document timing questions with dates, source records, and a short explanation of why it matters to the current disability issue. |
Records for Reopening A Prior Disability Claim
- current SSA denial or hearing notice
- proof of filing or appeal receipt
- updated medical records and provider list
- work history and earnings records relevant to the disputed period
Questions to prepare
- What appeal level is active now?
- What exactly did SSA say was missing or not persuasive?
- Which records are new since the last decision?
- Does the notice require action before a specific date?
Official starting points
Before taking the next step
Use the exact SSA notice and current appeal or benefit status. A general page about reopening a prior disability claim cannot determine eligibility or predict an outcome, and it should not replace an official filing instruction.