SSA-561-U2: Request for Reconsideration
Form SSA-561-U2 is the first-level appeal of a Social Security decision. Filing it asks SSA to take a fresh look at a denial or other determination you disagree with, whether it involves disability, retirement, SSI, or an overpayment.
This is the genuine SSA PDF, unmodified. Source: SSA official page.
What is SSA-561-U2?
SSA-561-U2, Request for Reconsideration, starts the reconsideration step of Social Security's appeals process. It applies to initial determinations such as a denied disability or SSI application, a benefit amount you believe is wrong, or an overpayment finding. Someone who was not involved in the first decision reviews the file, along with any new evidence you submit, and issues a new determination.
The form itself is short: it identifies you, names the issue you are appealing, and gives you space to say why you disagree. For medical disability denials, SSA usually also asks for updated disability and medical release forms so the reviewer can collect recent treatment records. Reconsideration is a required step in most states before you can request a hearing with an administrative law judge.
Who files SSA-561-U2?
- People whose application for disability, retirement, survivors, or SSI benefits was denied
- Beneficiaries who disagree with a decision about their benefit amount or eligibility
- People appealing an overpayment determination who believe the amount or the finding is wrong
- Representatives or family members filing on behalf of a claimant
How to fill out SSA-561-U2
- Enter your name, Social Security number, and claim information, and identify the decision you are appealing.
- Write a short, direct statement of why you think the decision is wrong; you can attach pages or new evidence if you need more room.
- For medical denials, complete the updated disability report and medical release forms SSA requests along with this one.
- Sign and date the form.
- File it within the appeal window, generally 60 days from the date you receive the decision notice, by mailing it to your local Social Security office, delivering it in person, or appealing online at ssa.gov.
Quick fill SSA-561-U2 on this page
Prefer to see the form itself while you type? Open SSA-561-U2 in the editor to fill it on the actual pages, add a signature, and download.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to file?
Generally 60 days from the date you receive the decision notice, and SSA assumes you received it 5 days after the date on the letter. If you miss the deadline you can ask SSA to accept a late appeal for good cause, but do not count on that; file as soon as you can.
Can my benefits continue while I appeal an overpayment or cessation?
In some situations, yes. If you appeal certain decisions, such as a disability cessation or an SSI change, within 10 days, you can ask for benefits to continue while the appeal is decided. Ask your local office about continuation rules for your specific case, since repayment can be required if you lose.
What happens if reconsideration is denied too?
You can request a hearing before an administrative law judge, generally within 60 days of the reconsideration notice. Many claims denied at reconsideration are approved at the hearing level, so a reconsideration denial is not the end of the process.