Social Security disability payments are designed to protect workers who have become disabled. But sometimes, benefits are denied even though a worker thinks he or she is entitled to receive them. If you've been denied social security disability benefits, or if the amount of your payments change, you can appeal this decision if you think it's wrong.

The appeals process has several levels. You can ask for a reconsideration. This is a review of your case by someone who did not take part in the original decision. If your reconsideration decision is not favorable, you can ask for a hearing by an administrative law judge. If the judge rules against you, you can ask for a review by Social Security's Appeals Council. If this effort also fails, you can file a lawsuit in federal court.

Appealing a social security decision can be very complicated. Thus, it is a good idea to be represented by a lawyer. Your lawyer helps put together the best case to support your claim so as to increase your chances of receiving benefits.