If medical issues become so severe that a person cannot continue working, they may require disability benefits to cover their living expenses. For those without private or employer-sponsored disability insurance policies, Social Security benefits may be one of the few options available to them.
People who are not yet old enough to retire and who have enough work history to qualify may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits when their medical challenges prevent them from continuing their careers. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews every application thoroughly based on not just the diagnosis of the applicant but also the impact the medical condition has on functional capabilities.
Frequently, potentially qualified applicants get rejected initially and must appeal. The appeals process can increase the overall timeline for receiving benefits, which can amplify the financial pressure on those who are already unable to work.
How long does the appeals process generally take for SSDI applicants who have been rejected initially?
The timeline varies drastically
There are four stages of SSDI appeals available, and the type of appeal required plays a major role in how long it takes to receive benefits. The first stage of appeal is a reconsideration. The applicant can correct any issues with their paperwork and submit additional medical records.
An SSA employee not involved in the original determination reviews everything to decide if the applicant is eligible. A successful reconsideration could be over in a matter of weeks. If reconsideration is not successful, then the next appeals option is a hearing in front of an administrative law judge.
Typically, applicants must wait several months for that hearing. Currently, the SSA office in Akron, Ohio, reports an average wait time of seven months for a hearing in front of an administrative law judge. Although a seven-month wait is highly inconvenient for those already struggling financially, it is actually much shorter than the average wait time in many other major metropolitan areas.
The other appeals options involve requesting a review by the Appeals Council or litigating in federal court. Both of those options are likely to drastically extend the appeals timeline. The entire process could take two years or even longer.
The good news for those preparing to apply or getting ready to appeal is that a successful appeal can lead to backdated benefits. Applicants can receive a lump-sum payment for the benefits they should have received if the SSA had approved their application promptly.
Working with an SSDI attorney can help applicants avoid common mistakes and navigate the appeals process more effectively, if necessary. Those who know what to expect can avoid common pitfalls and can have plans in place for the possible delays generated by appeals.