If you’re struggling with SSDI/denial of claims(happens a lot), you should appeal quickly. You should find the appeal form on the SSA website.
You can start, save, and submit your appeal electronically through the SSA Online Appeal Portal. [1] (https://secure.ssa.gov/iApplsRe/start).

This is the best line of defense for first appeal. If you’re struggling (brain fog) you can call 211. They can help you find legal aid for assistance.
There is also the department of aging that can help. Remember a lot of attorneys let you have 15 minutes to ask questions also.
Don’t wait to appeal as it is almost impossible to receive a positive response if it’s over the 60 days. At that point attorneys are the best option.

All my information is based on me dealing with my husband’s initial disability, friends mental health disability requests, medical denials I’ve had to write and legal aid I’ve needed in the past.

Hope this helps.

Thank you so much. I have the info ready for the online appeal. And I will probably call my local office to see what they say is missing/needed.

If you still don't get help then I would contact my Congressman like Faith says. The gov is not responding to a lot of things. Friends aren't getting paid providing home care giving and another was under paid and just get VM and no replies.

There are also a few nonprofit organizations that help with disability denials. Searching for them on the web using words nonprofit, denial, SSDI, state you live in.
If worst comes to worst contact your local congressman. They can be another source in your advocacy.

By the way, attorneys are only allowed a certain percentage by federal law.
The money is taken from any back pay only.
I believe the government has a maximum of 9,200.00 plus legal expenses for court appearances. But this is one of those questions you can get the answer to with the 15 minute free call.