2194.Appeals Council Review

2194.1Why would you request an Appeals Council review?

You may request a review by the Appeals Council if you are not satisfied with the action of the ALJ, whether a decision or dismissal. The Council will grant, deny, or dismiss your request for review as it decides is proper. See §2013.

2194.2How do you request an Appeals Council review?

You must make a request for a review by the Appeals Council in writing. File your request within 60 days from the date you receive the notice of the ALJ’s decision or dismissal. The request may be filed with any Social Security office, at a hearing office, or directly with the Appeals Council. You can make the request by letter or on a special form HA-520, Request for Review of Hearing Decision/Order, which is available at any Social Security office or online at: www.socialsecurity.gov/online.

2194.3What does the Appeals Council do with the request for review?

The Appeals Council makes a thorough inspection of your claim:

1. The Appeals Council notifies you whether it will review your case.

2. If the Council decides to review your case, you or your representative may request an appearance before the Council for presentation of oral arguments.

3. If the Appeals Council determines that a significant question of law or policy is present or that oral arguments would be beneficial in rendering a proper decision, the appearance will be granted.

4. You may also file written statements in support of your claim. The Appeals Council will notify you of its action in the case.