HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO GET A SOCIAL SECURITY DISABIILTY HEARING...?

How long will it take to get a Social Security disability hearing?

Typically, it takes 18 to 24 months from the date you file your appeal/request for hearing.  About 25 percent of claims will be approved without an appeal; the other 75 percent must appeal and wait.  The wait is due to a huge backlog in the Social Security Administration.

How long will I have to wait for a decision after my hearing has been held?

The wait varies from judge to judge and office to office.  60 to 90 days is common.  Fully favorable decisions are the quickest because they are the least complicated to write.

Once I get my favorable decision, how long will I have to wait to get paid?

The time varies.  Most people wait 30 to 45 more days to receive their first check.  Back pay may take even longer.  If a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claim was also filed, the wait will be longer because the SSI paperwork must be processed first and that requires an interview with the claimant.  

Can I receive any emergency benefits while I wait for Social Security to decide my case or to pay me?

No.  Unfortunately, Social Security has one speed for almost everyone and it does not include any special advances or funds to cover emergencies.

Can anything speed up my disability case?

There are three things that might get expedited (faster) processing for a Social Security disability claim:

1)  Critical case designation.  if the claimant has a terminal illness and is expected to live no more than 12 months, the case may be declared a critical case and acted on more quickly.

(2) Dire Need.  If the claimant is homeless and has no way to provide food or shelter.  If the claimant needs emergency medical treatment which he/she cannot afford or obtain,  Social Security may designate a case as "dire need" and speed up the process.

2)   Disabled veterans who have a 100 percent permanent, total VA disability rating may get expedited claim processing with Social Security.

      Obviously, there are some things that all applicants should do to avoid needless delays in their claims.  Try to file a complete, accurate application--and this applies to all the questionnaires and reports that go with the application.  Attend all interviews or examinations as directed.  If denied, file an immediate appeal--because hearings are assigned in the order in which appeals were filed.  

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The Forsythe Firm
Social Security Disability Counselors
7027 Old Madison Pike - Suite 108
"Across From Bridge Street"
CALL (256) 799-0297

Free consultations - We never ask you for money.

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