Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can be a very long and complicated process. Often, the steps are not clear and most applicants have no idea how long the process can take from submission through to when you start receiving monthly checks.
We’ve included an overview of the application timeline to give you an idea of how long you can expect the process to take.
Having an experienced Social Security disability lawyer by your side can make the process move much more smoothly and at a much faster pace. Our team of Phoenix Social Security Disability attorneys now the inner workings of the SSD application process and can help you get the benefits you need faster.
To learn more about how we can help you, call 1-800-503-2000 to schedule a free consultation.
The Application Process
The process begins once you start completing your first application. Once you have submitted the application online or at your local Social Security office, it is sent to your state Disability Determination Services. Once there, a claims examiner will review your application and collect all of the information needed to make a decision for approval or denial.
There is no set limit as to how long or quickly a decision will be made. It could take from sixth months up to one year for the examiner to contact the necessary parties to gather your work and medical records.
If You Have Been Denied
Unfortunately, the majority of applicants are denied acceptance on their first application. If your application is denied, you have 60 days to appeal the decision through a reconsideration, or you will have to begin the application process all over again from scratch.
If your reconsideration is also denied, you will need to request a hearing. It could take six months to one year to appear before a judge.
Your Application is Approved
Congratulations your application has been approved! However, it will still take some time before your monthly checks start arriving. The Social Security Administration requires a five-month waiting period from your application date, also called your onset date, before your benefits will begin.
As was detailed above, the application and approval process is a long one, so there is a chance that your application will not be approved before this point anyway.
An SSD Lawyer Can Help
There is a chance that your application and approval process could take as long as two years before you are able to start receiving benefits. A qualified social security disability benefits lawyer can help speed this process up and get you the benefits you need faster. If your claim has been denied, contact Dayes Law Firm PC today to discuss your claim.
Call 1-800-503-2000 or complete the Free Case Evaluation form.