SSDI approval time isn’t a set science, and some applicants wait years for approval. The SSDI timeline also involves considerable wait time from the initial application to the day you begin receiving benefits. While the Social Security Administration has a goal of accelerating its disability-determining processing time, it is currently a long game for anyone who applies.
SSDI Timeline
In the Lone Star State, SSDI approval time can be as long as two years. Just making a decision can take seven months or longer. In November 2023, SSA had over 1.15 million new applications for SSDI, including the backlog of unprocessed cases due to the pandemic. Even though the rate of new applications has dropped, the rate of pending cases has increased.
There are three steps in the SSDI process before you begin getting benefits:
- The initial application and first evaluation
- If your claim is denied initially, then a reconsideration
- If your claim is denied after reconsideration, a hearing in front of a judge
- If the judge denies your claim, you can then go to the Appeals Council
Each judge must review all the evidence for each individual who asks for reconsideration or appeal, which can include hundreds of documents in each file. The Appeals Council, which reviews judges’ decisions, can take 18 months or longer to reach a decision.
Factors Affecting SSDI Approval Time
Approval generally takes a long time, Although the long wait for approval may include a one-time back pay payment, it may not be helpful if you’ve exhausted all resources.
For an initial application, three to five months is average just for approval. This will also depend on:
- How complex your case is
- The severity of your impairment
- Available medical evidence to support your claim of disability
- The workload and backlog of cases waiting for review at the local Social Security office
- The accuracy of your claim application
The number of people applying for SSDI in the last few years has added to the already difficult backlog the SSA handles. The decision time is up to the SSA itself, so making sure that your application does not stall the process is vital.
Why Do I Need An SSDI Disability Attorney?
Don’t risk delays by missing or incorrect information on your application. With mistakes as the most frequent reason for denial, getting help at the beginning of the process can help avoid problems that can extend the SSDI timeline.
An SSDI disability application process is very detailed and complex. You can attempt the application process yourself, but you may not have the knowledge and experience to ensure that your application is complete. Mistakes in the initial application, reconsideration, or appeals, can lead to rejection which makes the SSDI approval time much longer.
Working with a disability attorney who understands the SSDI timeline, and “speaks their language,” streamlines the process. Your attorney can help ensure that your application is done correctly the first time and can avoid rejection. The attorney can communicate with SSA for you, ensure that all forms and documents are done correctly, stay current on all correspondence, and make sure that everything is accurate and what SSA requires.
Even if your initial application is denied, your disability attorney can represent you for the entire reconsideration/appeals process, and ensure that everything is done to SSA’s exacting standards. By working with an experienced expert in SSA’s application process, you can avoid delays in your application due to mistakes and omissions.
Houston’s Social Security Disability Insurance Attorney
Do you need help with Social Security Disability Claims? We’ve helped over 4,000 Houstonians get SSDI and other disability benefits. The Herren Law Firm in Houston, TX can assist with your application, appeals, and records gathering to prove your case and win your claim. Contact us today at 713-682-8194 (or use our online contact form) to schedule your free consultation. There’s no obligation, and no up-front fees, and we only collect a fee if we win your case.
