Initial Application Processing Time

The first step in any disability case is submitting an initial application to the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA will review your application, including your medical evidence and other documentation.

Timeframe:

• The initial application process typically takes about 3 to 6 months to complete. During this time, the SSA will gather medical records, evaluate your claim, and make a decision.
• Approximately 70-80% of initial SSDI claims are denied. If your claim is approved, you’ll receive disability benefits sooner. However, most applicants need to go through an appeals process.

Denials and the Appeals Process

If your initial disability claim is denied, which is common, the next step is to appeal the decision. The appeals process typically consists of several stages, and each stage can add additional time to the overall timeline.

Key Stages of the Appeals Process:

• Reconsideration: After your claim is denied, you can request a reconsideration, where the SSA reviews your claim again. This process can take approximately 3 to 6 months.
• Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If reconsideration is denied, the next step is to request a hearing before an ALJ. The wait time for a hearing can vary significantly depending on your location, but it typically takes 12 to 18 months for a hearing to be scheduled.
• Decision from the ALJ: After the hearing, the ALJ will make a decision, which can take several weeks to a few months. If you win your case at the hearing, you’ll begin receiving benefits soon after.

Total Time for Appeals:

• The appeals process can take 1 to 2 years or even longer in some cases. However, if your lawyer can help streamline your evidence and prepare your case thoroughly, it may shorten the wait time.

The Role of a Lawyer in Speeding Up the Process

While the SSA controls much of the timeline, working with a disability lawyer can help speed up the process in several ways:

• Thorough Preparation: A lawyer will help ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and includes the necessary medical evidence. A well-prepared application is less likely to be denied, which could save time in the long run.
• Appeal Process Guidance: If your case is denied, your lawyer can assist with the appeal process, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted quickly and effectively.
• Efficient Representation at Hearings: If your case goes to a hearing, a lawyer can represent you and present the best possible case to the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This can increase the chances of a favorable decision, which could reduce the overall time it takes to win your case.

Factors That Affect the Timeline

The timeline for winning a disability case can vary based on several factors, including:

Case Complexity:

• Simple cases with clear medical evidence and no complications may be processed faster. However, complex cases involving multiple conditions or difficult-to-obtain medical records may take longer to resolve.

Backlog at the SSA:

• The SSA often has a significant backlog of cases, which can slow down the process. Some areas may have more waiting time than others, especially in regions with a high volume of disability claims.

Medical Evidence:

• If obtaining medical evidence takes time or if additional tests or evaluations are required, this can delay the process. It’s important to work with your lawyer to ensure that all relevant medical records are included from the outset.

Hiring a Lawyer Early:

• Engaging a lawyer early in the process may help avoid mistakes in your initial application, speeding up the time it takes to get a favorable decision. An experienced lawyer will also help you avoid unnecessary delays during the appeals process.

How Long Does It Take to Win a Disability Case with a Lawyer?

While the exact timeframe varies from case to case, here’s a general idea of what to expect:

• Initial Approval: If your case is approved on the first attempt (which is rare), it could take about 3 to 6 months.
• Appeals Process: If your claim is denied and you need to appeal, the entire process can take 12 to 24 months, or longer in some cases, depending on the backlog and complexity of your case.

While your lawyer can help reduce unnecessary delays and improve your chances of success, the timeline for winning a disability case often depends on factors outside your lawyer’s control.