What kind of issues does the Appeals Council consider?

The Appeals Council will review a case if there is an abuse of judicial discretion; error of law; the actions, findings or conclusions are not supported by substantial evidence; or there is a broad policy or procedural issue that may affect the general public interest. New evidence can be given to the Appeals Council if it relates to the period before the date of the Administrative Law Judge’s (ALJ) decision and if is likely to change the outcome of the case and if there was a good cause reason for not submitting this evidence while the case was before the ALJ. The Appeals Council can do one of 3 things: 1. Deny the Request for Review (take no action on your case). If this happens, then you will have 60 days to file an appeal in Federal District Court, or 2. Return your case to the ALJ for a new decision. This will usually mean you will have another hearing with this ALJ, or 3. Issue a new decision and award you disability benefits.