What is considered good cause for missing the deadline to request a review?

Good cause for missing a deadline, particularly in the context of requesting a review of a decision regarding Social Security Disability Insurance, typically involves circumstances that are beyond the individual’s control and that significantly impede their ability to meet the deadline. Serious illness or hospitalization fits this criterion perfectly. When a person is seriously ill or hospitalized, they may be physically unable to manage their paperwork, understand their rights, or communicate effectively about their case. These situations can be compelling enough to justify a missed deadline, as they directly impact an individual’s capacity to comply with required timelines.

In the context of reviewing claims, the Social Security Administration recognizes that health issues can hinder individuals from performing necessary actions. Therefore, proving to have been seriously ill or hospitalized provides a strong basis for the good cause argument, as it underscores the severity of the circumstances that prevented timely action on the claim.