Keep the whole notice
Save every page and the envelope, and write down the date it arrived. The notice explains the decision and your appeal rights.
Identify the stage
Check whether the decision follows an initial application, reconsideration, a hearing, or Appeals Council review. The next step depends on the stage.
Gather the context
List your treating doctors, earlier filings, and the records you already have. Do not send medical records through a website form or a first email.
Count the days
You generally have 60 days to appeal, counted from five days after the date on the notice. Social Security’s appeal page has the official instructions.
This guide is a general checklist, not legal advice. It may not list every document or step that matters in your situation.
Official resource: Social Security: appeal a decision