How Long Does It Take to Get Social Security Disability?

How Long Does It Take to Get Social Security Disability?

Social Security Disability gets approved based on different factors: the intricacy of your case and the completeness of your application. On average, the process can take three to five months to get a first decision. Certain circumstances, though, can take longer, particularly if you have to file an appeal for a denial. To speed up the process as much as possible, you must hire an attorney! Keep reading to know how long it takes to get a social security disability. Here we go! 

Timeline to Receive Social Security Disability (SSD) Benefits

1. Initial application stage 

The SSA normally needs three to five months to evaluate your initial application for SSD benefits before deciding. This timescale, however, may change depending on a number of variables, including the volume of applications submitted and the intricacy of your medical condition. Benefits will be awarded to you as soon as the decision is made, provided your application is accepted.

2. Request for reconsideration 

If your initial application is not accepted, you have requested a reconsideration within two months of receiving a denial notice. In this reconsideration process, the application gets reviewed by a different SSA examiner. As a result, this stage may take around 3 to 6 months. 

3. Hearing before an administrative law judge 

You have the right to ask for an ALJ hearing if your claim is rejected during the reconsideration phase. You and the representative will have the chance to present evidence and give testimony. Additionally, make your case in front of the judge during the hearing. The backlog of cases in your area can affect how long you have to wait for a hearing. Receiving a hearing date could take up to a year in certain cases.

4. Appeals council and federal court review 

You can appeal to the SSA’s appeals council and, if required, seek additional review in federal court if the ALJ rejects your claim. Depending on the intricacies of your case and backlog appeals, these steps may add several months and even years to the process. 

Wrapping up

At times, the entire process takes somewhere around 5 months to several years, based on all complexities. It is important to remain patient and persistent throughout the process. 

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