Principal Attorney
SSDI claims can take months to process, and some take longer when the Social Security Administration (SSA) needs additional medical records, information from the applicant, or further review. While you cannot control every part of the process, responding quickly to requests and keeping your information current can help prevent avoidable delays.
How Long Does an SSDI Claim Usually Take?
SSA currently advises that an initial decision on a disability application generally takes six to eight months. The actual timeline varies from one claim to another.
After you submit an application for disability benefits, SSA first reviews whether you meet the program’s basic non-medical requirements. If your claim moves forward, it is generally sent to a state Disability Determination Services (DDS) agency for a medical determination.
During this stage, DDS gathers and evaluates the evidence needed to determine whether your condition meets SSA’s definition of disability. The time required to complete that process depends partly on how quickly the necessary information becomes available.
Why Do SSDI Claims Get Delayed?
A longer processing time does not necessarily mean there is a problem with your claim. Some applications simply require more development than others. Common reasons for delays include:
- Waiting for medical records. DDS generally requests records from the doctors, hospitals, clinics, and other medical sources identified in your application. If a provider is slow to respond, the claim may take longer to review.
- Missing or incomplete information. Gaps in your treatment history, work history, or other application details can lead to follow-up requests.
- Additional medical evaluation. If the existing evidence is not sufficient to make a decision, DDS may arrange a consultative examination or request additional testing.
- Further review. Some claims undergo additional quality review before SSA issues its decision.
SSA processing times and pending caseloads can also affect how long applicants wait for decisions.
What Happens If SSA Needs More Information?
SSA or DDS may contact you during the review process to request additional information or ask you to complete forms. You may also be scheduled for a consultative examination if more medical evidence is needed.
Pay close attention to letters, phone calls, and notices you receive about your claim. If you are asked to provide information or attend an examination, follow the instructions and respond by the stated deadline.
You should also report significant changes that could affect your application, such as a new medical provider or updated contact information.
What Can You Do to Avoid Unnecessary SSDI Delays?
You cannot control SSA’s workload or how quickly a medical provider responds to a records request. You can, however, reduce the chance that missing information causes additional waiting.
When applying for Social Security Disability benefits, provide complete information about your medical treatment and recent work history. Include accurate contact information for your healthcare providers and details about where and when you received treatment.
After filing, you can also:
- Respond promptly to requests from SSA or DDS.
- Attend any scheduled consultative examinations.
- Continue receiving appropriate medical treatment and keep track of new providers or testing.
- Check the status of your pending application through your personal my Social Security account.
Keeping copies of correspondence and information you submit can also make it easier to respond if questions arise later.
What If Your SSDI Claim Is Denied After the Wait?
A lengthy review does not guarantee approval. If SSA denies your application, the notice should explain the decision and provide information about your right to appeal.
The first level of the SSDI appeals process is generally reconsideration. You typically have 60 days after receiving the denial notice to request an appeal, so waiting too long to respond can affect your ability to continue pursuing the claim.
An appeal also provides an opportunity to submit updated medical evidence and address issues that may have affected the initial decision.
Get Help Keeping Your SSDI Claim on Track
Waiting for an SSDI decision can be frustrating, particularly when you are unsure whether SSA has everything it needs. Staying responsive and keeping your medical and contact information current can help prevent avoidable setbacks.
Disability Advocates Group assists applicants throughout California with SSDI applications and appeals. If you have questions about a pending claim, a request from SSA, or a denial, contact Disability Advocates Group to discuss your case and the next steps.
