Individuals applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are often in the midst of a medical and financial crisis. A recently-acquired or worsening medical condition interferes with their ability to continue working to support themselves.
They may have minimal resources in reserve, leaving them vulnerable to a loss of housing, rapidly accumulating debt and other economic pressures. SSDI benefits are a form of earned benefit that workers qualify for based on their employment history. Once they apply for benefits, they may need to wait months to hear back from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
A significant majority of applicants face rejection instead of approval. They may then need to appeal for benefits. If a reconsideration isn’t successful, then a hearing in front of an administrative law judge is necessary.
Wait times vary
Setting a hearing in front of an administrative law judge already requires patience. The current average wait time is between six and eight months, sometimes longer, depending on the SSA office that received the initial application.
During the hearing, the applicant and their attorney present information to prove that the SSA erred by denying the applicant benefits. Judges have to go over detailed medical records to validate that an applicant actually qualifies for benefits.
That process can easily take another two to three months, possibly longer. Applicants may need to prepare themselves for a multi-month wait in most cases. Establishing a strict budget and tapping into alternate sources of temporary support can help people make ends meet until a judge returns their final determination.
If the ruling by the judge is favorable, then the applicant is eligible for monthly benefits going forward and may also receive a lump-sum award for past-due benefits, beginning with when they were first eligible. If the hearing was not successful, then the applicant may need to discuss continuing the appeals process with their lawyer.
Knowing what to expect during an SSDI appeal can help people prepare themselves for what can be a lengthy process. Patience and tenacity can pay off for those with disabling medical conditions who need SSDI benefits.