This Just the Facts Series addresses a new administrative process for initial disability claims. The Social Security Administration has finalized new rules that will dramatically alter the administrative appeal and review process used when a claimant files an application for SSI on the basis of disability or blindness and/or Title II disability claims. The reconsideration and Appeals Council steps in the existing appeals process have been eliminated, new evidence admission criteria have been established and a “quick decision” process has been created to expedite those claims that will clearly meet SSA’s disability definition. The new process is known as the Disability Service Improvement (DSI) process
