How Long Does it Take to Get Social Security Disability Benefits?
According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the average processing time for a new Social Security Disability (SSDI) application is three to six months. But, the average processing time varies from state to state. And, that estimate can be a bit misleading. That’s the average time SSA says you should expect to wait for an initial determination. But, a significant percentage of applications are denied at this stage. Working your way through the process of reconsideration and appeals can take much longer.
Fortunately, there are some things you can do to speed up the initial application process and increase your chances of being approved earlier in the process.
Expediting Your SSDI Application
SSA doesn’t offer an expedited process for disability benefits, but you can take steps to make the process as efficient as possible. First, SSA says you can cut your processing time in half if you apply online.
Ensuring that your SSDI application is complete, you’ve provided all necessary documentation, and your medical providers promptly share necessary information can also help move the process forward. A Social Security Disability Benefits Advocate can be your best source of assistance in putting together a clear and complete application to give you the best chance of approval.
The Social Security Administration does have limited “Compassionate Allowances” and “Quick Disability Determinations” programs for certain severe conditions:
Compassionate Allowances (CAL)
The SSA identifies claims where the applicant’s disease or condition clearly meets Social Security’s statutory standard for disability. The Compassionate Allowances program allows Social Security to target the most obviously disabled individuals for allowances based on objective medical information that can be obtained quickly. Compassionate Allowances reduce wait time to reach a disability determination for individuals with the most serious disabilities.
Conditions that qualify for Compassionate Allowances include certain cancers, adult brain disorders, and rare disorders affecting children. There are currently over 200 conditions in the Compassionate Allowances program.
Quick Disability Determinations (QDD)
The Quick Disability Determinations (QDD) process uses a computer-based predictive model to identify claims where a favorable disability determination is highly likely and where evidence is readily available. This allows SSA to make these decisions faster while maintaining accuracy.
Ways to Speed Up Your Application Process
- Apply online – Online applications can be processed more quickly
- Provide complete information – Include all requested information on your application
- Submit medical evidence promptly – Provide names, addresses, and phone numbers of all doctors, hospitals, and clinics that have treated you
- Respond quickly to SSA requests – If SSA contacts you for additional information, respond as soon as possible
- Report changes – Inform SSA immediately if your condition worsens or if you see new doctors
What if the Initial SSDI Application is Denied?
If your initial SSDI application is denied, the next step in most states is a request for reconsideration. This step is usually quicker than the initial application, but the success rate is low. The highest rate of approval occurs at the next stage: a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). However, it can take more than a year to get a hearing before an ALJ, and then several months to receive your determination. Those who are denied at this stage may require an additional step, or even two, to complete the process.
In short, a claim for Social Security disability benefits (SSDI) may be approved in just a few months, and you may begin receiving benefits as soon as six months after you become disabled. But most SSDI application claims are denied in the initial rounds, meaning that many who apply for disability benefits don’t start receiving benefits for two years or more. If you disagree with the initial determination by the SSA, you have the right to appeal.
The Four Levels of Appeal
- Reconsideration – A complete review of your claim by someone who did not take part in the first determination. You generally have 60 days from the date you receive the notice of the decision to ask for a reconsideration.
- Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) – If you disagree with the reconsideration decision, you may request a hearing before an ALJ. The ALJ will review your case and consider any new evidence. You generally have 60 days from the date you receive the reconsideration notice to request a hearing.
- Review by the Appeals Council – If you disagree with the ALJ’s decision, you may request a review by Social Security’s Appeals Council. The Appeals Council looks at all requests for review, but it may deny a request if it believes the ALJ’s decision was correct. You generally have 60 days to request Appeals Council review.
- Federal Court Review – If you disagree with the Appeals Council’s decision or if the Appeals Council decides not to review your case, you may file a lawsuit in a federal district court. You generally have 60 days to file a civil suit after you receive notice of the Appeals Council’s action.
Current Processing Times for Appeals
The average wait time for a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge has historically ranged from 12 to 18 months or more, depending on the hearing office location and current case backlog. After the hearing, it typically takes several additional months to receive a written decision.
The SSA has been working to reduce wait times through various initiatives including:
- Hiring additional Administrative Law Judges
- Implementing technology improvements
- Expanding video hearing capabilities
- Streamlining case processing procedures
A Social Security Disability Advocate Can Help
Your best chance of receiving Social Security disability benefits (SSDI) as quickly as possible is to ensure that you avoid missteps in the process, don’t miss any appeal deadlines, and provide complete documentation to the SSA in a format that is easy to work with.
The process can be daunting. At Disability Help Group, we understand the process, and we understand the stress you’re under and how important it is for you to receive your disability benefits. To learn more about how we can help, call (800) 800-2009 or contact us right now.
A disability advocate can help you by:
- Ensuring your initial SSDI application is complete and includes all necessary medical evidence
- Helping you obtain supporting documentation from your doctors
- Preparing you for consultative examinations
- Representing you at your ALJ hearing
- Presenting your case effectively with proper legal and medical arguments
- Meeting all critical deadlines throughout the appeals process
- Communicating with SSA on your behalf
Frequently Asked Questions About SSDI Processing Times
Can I work while my SSDI claim is being processed? Working while your claim is pending can be complicated. If you earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) amount ($1,550/month for non-blind individuals in 2025), it may affect your eligibility. Consult with a disability advocate before making employment decisions during the application process.
What happens if my condition worsens while waiting for a decision? You should immediately notify SSA if your condition worsens or if you develop additional disabling conditions. Submit updated medical records and ask your doctors to provide current assessments of your limitations.
Will I be notified of the decision by mail? Yes, SSA will send you a written notice of their decision. If approved, the notice will explain your benefit amount and when payments will begin. If denied, it will explain the reasons and your appeal rights.
Can I check the status of my application online? Yes, you can check your application status online by creating a my Social Security account at https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/. You can also call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to check your status.
