Why Most Social Security Disability Cases Can’t Be Expedited — And Why You Usually Have to Wait Your Turn

If you’ve filed for Social Security Disability benefits, you already know the process is slow. For many people, the waiting is the hardest part. We regularly hear the same question:

“Can you expedite my case?”

At the Law Offices of Christopher Le, we understand how stressful this process is. You may be out of work. Bills are piling up. You’re dealing with serious medical issues. It feels urgent — because it is urgent to you.

But here’s the honest truth: Most Social Security Disability cases cannot be expedited. And in most situations, you simply have to wait your turn in line.

Let’s explain why.

The Social Security System Is Backlogged Nationwide

The Social Security Administration (SSA) handles millions of disability applications every year. There are simply more applicants than there are examiners, staff members, and administrative law judges to process them.

Every stage takes time:

• Initial application review

• Reconsideration appeal

• Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge

• Appeals Council review

  
  

Each case is generally processed in the order it was received. This “first in, first out” system is designed to be fair to everyone in line.

If cases were routinely expedited just because someone asked, the system would become even more chaotic and unfair.

What Actually Qualifies for Expedited Processing?

There are limited exceptions — but they are narrow.

The SSA may expedite a case if it qualifies under specific programs such as:

• Compassionate Allowances (CAL) – For certain severe medical conditions that automatically meet disability standards.

• Terminal Illness (TERI) cases – When a claimant has a terminal diagnosis.

• Military Casualty/Wounded Warrior cases

  
  

However, even in these situations, expedited processing does not mean immediate approval. It simply means the file may be moved faster than standard cases.

For the vast majority of applicants, their condition — even if very serious — does not fall into these limited categories.

Why Your Lawyer Can’t “Pull Strings”

Many clients understandably ask:

“Can you call someone?”

“Can you speed it up?”

“Can you talk to the judge?”

We wish it worked that way — but it doesn’t.

The SSA is a federal agency with strict procedural rules. Judges and disability examiners cannot give special treatment because someone hired an attorney. There is no VIP lane.

In fact, ethical rules prohibit improper influence. Cases are assigned and scheduled based on administrative systems, not personal requests.

What we can do is:

• Make sure your file is complete

• Submit strong medical evidence

• Follow up appropriately

• Monitor deadlines

• Prepare you thoroughly for your hearing

  
  

What we cannot do is bypass the line without a legally recognized reason.

The Reality of the Disability Timeline

While timelines vary, it is common for cases to take:

• 12-18 months for an initial decision

• Another 12-18 months at reconsideration

• 6-9 months to receive a hearing date in some areas

  
  

It is frustrating — we know. But everyone in the system is facing similar delays.

Remember: The person ahead of you in line may also be unable to work, facing eviction, or struggling medically. The system attempts to treat applicants consistently and fairly.

Why Patience Matters (Even Though It’s Hard)

Waiting does not mean your case is weak.

Waiting does not mean your lawyer isn’t working.

Waiting does not mean you’ve been forgotten.

It means your case is moving through a very large federal system.

At the Law Offices of Christopher Le, we focus on what we can control:

• Building the strongest medical record possible

• Ensuring forms are accurate and timely

• Preparing compelling legal arguments

• Getting you ready for testimony

  
  

Strong preparation during the waiting period can make the difference when your turn finally comes.

What You Should Do While You Wait

Instead of focusing on speeding up the case (which usually isn’t possible), focus on strengthening it:

• Continue regular medical treatment

• Follow your doctor’s recommendations

• Keep us updated on new diagnoses or hospital visits

• Maintain consistent documentation of symptoms

  
  

Ongoing medical evidence is often the key to winning your claim.

Final Thoughts

We understand the anxiety that comes with waiting for a Social Security Disability decision. If there were a lawful way to expedite every deserving case, we would do it.

But the reality is this:

Most disability cases cannot be expedited. You generally have to wait your turn in line.

What matters most is being prepared when your case is finally reviewed or heard.

If you have questions about your claim or believe you may qualify under one of the limited expedited categories, contact the Law Offices of Christopher Le. We’re here to guide you through the process — every step of the way — even when the hardest part is simply waiting.