Tired of Waiting for Your Social Security Disability Decision-Why Does it Take So Long?

Social Security Disability claims can take many months and sometimes years to process. The initial application for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can take over 3 months to process; if the claim is denied it can take another 1-2 months to process a reconsideration appeal. If a claim is denied at the reconsideration level, a Judicial Hearing can be requested, which can take 1-2 years to schedule. There are several reasons it takes so long for the Social Security Administration to process Social Security Disability claims.

One reason for these long delays in the Social Security Disability claims process is that the Social Security Administration is understaffed. Examiners and judges have a very high case load in the Social Security Administration.

Another reason for long delays is because of the detailed approach that the Social Security Disability examiner uses to evaluate each claim. The examiner gathers all of the claimant’s medical records from the medical sources provided. If medical information in not current or if the medical records that are received do not address the medical conditions thoroughly, additional medical exams may be required. Each case must be thoroughly evaluated; unfortunately some severe Social Security Disability cases will take longer to process.

Every claim for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is different. Some claims involving very severe disability may be approved in the initial application phase and benefits can be received very quickly. Other Social Security Disability claims may take many months and sometimes years before benefits are received.

Social Security Disability claims that are denied in the initial application and reconsideration phase are often approved in a Social Security Disability hearing. If you have been denied Social Security benefits for your claim or if you are scheduled for a Social Security Disability hearing for your case, contact a Social Security Disability attorney who can answer your questions and review your claim.