For those who have filed for social security disability, you already know how frustrating and long the process can take. Unfortunately, many others are also experiencing very long wait times. It can be months to even years before you are approved for disability benefits. Just know that if you are truly disabled and unable to work, you will ultimately be able to receive benefits.
WILL MY SSDI CLAIM BE DENIED?
It is important to know that the majority of cases that are filed get denied at the first stage. . Anywhere from 70-80% of social security disability claims are denied after you file your initial application. The application process can take over an hour to complete and may asks questions you are unfamiliar with, so it might be better off getting an attorney to ensure that you are completing the application appropriately. This is especially true if you’ve already been denied and need assistance with the appeal. Its important to note that you have 60 days to appeal a denial. Many applicants either forget to appeal or just don't know how to, that is why it's vital to have legal representation to help you through the process.
HOW DO I FIND OUT IF I’VE BEEN APPROVED FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY?
Often, it takes three to six months for the Social Security Administration (SSA) to make a decision on your case. If you are appealing a denial, AKA reconsideration stage, it will take about the same time. make take even longer to get a decision.
The best way to find out if you’ve been approved or denied is to wait for the notice from SSA in the mail. Its important to update your address with SSA if you move so that the notice goes to your most current address. If your claim is denied, SSA will send you a Notice of Disapproved Claim or Notice of Reconsideration depending on the stage of the claim. If SSA is taking longer than usual to send a decision, you can check the status of your SSDI claim yourself. You will need to set up an account online through the SSA website. Once you have created an account, you will be able to login and view:
Date of application received by the SSA
Status of the decision by the SSA
Location of the SSA office handling your claim
Date and time of hearings that must be attended
You can also contact SSA directly by phone at 1-800-772-1213. The hours are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. You may also drive to your local SSA office to speak with a live representative about your claim.
DO I NEED TO WORRY IF MY DECISION IS DELAYED BY SSA?
Not necessarily. Sometimes, a claim can take longer than 6 months before a decision is made. While it may not be uncommon to have to wait several months to hear from SSA, it is important to check your status regularly. Many times SSA will send letters to your mailing address asking for additional information. If those forms are not filled out and sent back to SSA, that could delay a decision being made. Getting in touch with the SSA, or the lawyer handling your case, is a great way to stay up to date on your claim. Any issues that come up during the process would be beneficial if handled by an experienced attorney. In addition an attorney help navigate any issues along the way and get your claim or appeal on the right path.
If you have questions or need help with your claim or appeal, get in touch with the our office at 210-885-3408.