Social Security Disability Timing Issues

If you are thinking that you need to file for Social Security Disability, We suggest that you file sooner rather than later.  It is obvious that you cannot qualify for Disability Benefits if you do not apply.  However, what most folks do not know is the time it takes for the claim to work through the system.  Your initial application for Social Security Disability Benefits generally takes between 100 and 120 days to be processed.  In this time, the Social Security Administration will gather your medical records, and likely ask you to see a doctor of their choosing, as well as fill out additional paperwork about your past work activities and your daily activities.  If you are turned down on your initial application, you have 60 days from the date you are denied to files your Request for Reconsideration.  Again, it generally takes anywhere from 100 to 120 days to process this request.  If you are turned down on the Request for Reconsideration, you have 60 days to file your Request for Hearing Before Administrative Law Judge.  This portion of the application takes longer to process.  In Indianapolis, it used to take as many as 24 months to get a hearing.  However, thanks to diligence in the Office of Adjudication and Disability Review, that wait is down to between 10 and 14 months.  Still this is a long time.

If you need help fining your application, we can help.  If you have filed your application and have been turned down, call me.  I have 23 years of experience with Social Security claims, covering hundreds upon hundreds of claims and hearings.