How Long Does a Social Security Disability Claim Take?

There are many ways to answer this question. Areconsideration appeal take and what are you
Social Security disability claim may take less than thirtychances of winning disability benefits at this level?
days or over two years to receive a decision. AnUsually, a reconsideration appeal takes less time to
individual begins the disability process by filing an initialprocess; most reconsideration appeals take sixty days
disability claim with the Social Security Administration.or less to receive a medical decision. Now just what
Once the initial disability claim is taken, it is sent to theare your chances of being awarded disability benefits
state disability agency for a medical determination.at this level? Statistically, only ten to fifteen percent of
Generally, an individual's initial disability claim takesall reconsiderations are allowances. Why are the
anywhere from thirty to ninety days to get a decision.statistics so low? Reconsideration appeals are sent to
If the individual is awarded disability benefits at thisthe same state disability agency for a medical
juncture, their disability claim took ninety days or less.determination that initial disability claims are sent too.
Although most initial claims take ninety days or less,The only difference being is that your reconsideration
some take longer depending upon availability ofappeal is sent to a different disability examiner for
medical evidence, need for further consultativereview. Consequently, your reconsideration appeal is
examinations, etc.likely to be a denial as well.
If an individual's initial disability claim decision is a denialDon't get discouraged; the next appeal level is where
they have two choices: They can file an appeal of theare most likely to win your disability benefits if your
denial or file a new disability claim. NEVER file a newinitial claim was denied. If your reconsideration appeal is
initial claim if your first disability claim is denied! If yourdenied you can appeal the decision by file a request
initial claim is denied you should begin the Socialfor hearing before an administrative law judge.
Security disability appeal process. You are probablyAdministrative law judges have more leeway in
thinking why is it best to appeal the decision? Statisticsmaking their medical decisions that state agency
indicate if an individual is denied at the initial level, theydisability examiners. Thus, statistically there are many
are likely to be denied every time they file an initialmore disability benefit awards at this appeal level. The
claim. Initial claims are sent to state disability agenciesbiggest problem with this appeal level is the time it
for processing; these agencies are bound by stricttakes to receive an administrative law judge hearing.
rules and regulations while making medical decisions forCurrently, many states have large hearings request
Social Security. Therefore, you are likely to be denied ifbacklogs, and some disability applicants are waiting
you file another initial claim.months or even years to be scheduled for their
How do you appeal that initial disability denial? Youhearing.
may contact Social Security, and file an appeal knownIn conclusion, your Social Security disability claim may
as reconsideration or you can have a Social Securitytake less than thirty days or more than two years. If
disability representative file your appeal for you.your condition is not terminal and it does not meet or
Sometimes it is easier to have a representative handleequal the criteria from the List of Impairments
your appeals, so that you never miss your deadlines.contained in the Social Security disability handbook
All Social Security appeals have a sixty-five dayknown as the "blue book", it may take longer to
appeal period, if you miss this deadline, you may havereceive an award of disability benefits than an individual
to begin your disability claim again. So how long does awho has a terminal illness.