Social Security Disability FAQ: How Long Does it Take to Get My Social Security Disability Benefits?
One of the questions that many Social Security Disability applicants have on their minds – and rightly so – is how long it will take to get Social Security Disability benefits (or a decision regarding Social Security Disability benefits eligibility) after filing an initial application for Social Security Disability benefits with the Social Security Administration. The truth of the matter is that there are no “hard” deadlines by which the Social Security Administration must make its determinations, but there are some guidelines that may help Social Security Disability benefits applicants better understand the process and how long it might take. To help Social Security Disability benefits applicants get some clarity on the timeline of when they may see their benefits, or at least a determination of eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits, we discuss here the estimated time it takes the Social Security Administration to make its decisions on initial applications, and at the Social Security Disability hearing stage.
Initial Applications for Social Security Disability Benefits: How Long Will it Take to Get a Decision?
According to the Social Security Administration, there are a number of factors that influence when an applicant may receive a determination of Social Security Disability benefits eligibility at the initial application stage. The Social Security Administration website indicates that, “The time it takes to get a decision on your disability application can vary depending on: The nature of your disability; how quickly we can get your medical evidence from your doctor or other medical source; whether it is necessary to send you for a medical examination; whether we review your application for quality purposes.” In addition, the Social Security Administration notes that it generally takes 6 to 8 months for an applicant to receive a decision at the initial application stage.
The Social Security Disability Hearing Stage:
If a Social Security Disability applicant is denied benefits at the initial application stage, they may appeal the decision. The appeals process involves a hearing before an administrative law judge. The timing of when an applicant may receive a decision at the hearing stage typically depends on the facts of the case and the administrative law judge overseeing the case. Sometimes an administrative law judge will make the decision at the hearing. Other times, it may take months to hear back from the administration.
Getting Legal Help for Your Social Security Disability Case
One thing that can help speed up the complex Social Security Disability process is for applicants to work with an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer. An experienced Social Security Disability lawyer knows the ins-and-outs of the process and can help navigate the challenging application process for a better – and faster – chance of success.
If you need legal help with your Social Security Disability case, the experienced Social Security Disability lawyers at Nationwide Disability Law are here for you. Do not hesitate to speak with an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer about your case today. Contact the experienced Social Security Disability lawyers at Nationwide Disability Law and speak to a lawyer about your case now.
Source:
faq.ssa.gov/en-us/Topic/article/KA-01801
