Remand Case

A “remand” is when a reviewing body, such as a higher court, sends a back to the original decision maker to reconsider their ruling. In claims for Social Security Disability benefits, if an Administrative Law Judge makes a decision that the applicant disagrees with they can seek review of that decision by SSA’s Appeals Council. The Appeals Council may remand a claim for problems with the procedure in determining the outcome of the case, or when evidence in the case does not match up with the ALJ’s ruling. Remanded cases are usually sent back to the same Administrative Law Judge. The remand will include specific instructions for the ALJ on how to proceed with your case. If the Appeals Council denies review, further appeal can be sought in federal court. Federal Court’s also have the authority to remand decisions back to SSA for further consideration.