How Long Does It Take to Get SSDI?

January 29, 2024

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be an involved process, and the time it takes to receive benefits varies widely among applicants. The duration from initial application to the receipt of benefits hinges on a host of factors, including the nature of the disability, the quickness with which medical evidence is provided, and any potential need for additional medical examinations. Typically, first-time SSDI applicants may see an approval timeline that spans several months.

For many applicants, the process is not straightforward and may require going through several stages, including reconsideration and administrative hearings upon initial denial of benefits. During the application process, the Social Security Administration (SSA) must also complete a quality review of the application, which can affect the timeline. Once an application is approved, there is a five-month waiting period mandated before the benefits begin, meaning the first payment arrives in the sixth month after the established date of disability. The intricacies of each individual’s case make it difficult to predict an exact timeframe, but understanding the key stages can provide a general expectation for applicants navigating the system.

Understanding SSDI Eligibility

Eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) hinges on stringent criteria and a history of work credits. Applicants must navigate these requirements to secure benefits.

Criteria for SSDI

To be eligible for SSDI, an individual must have a medical condition that aligns with the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This condition must be severe enough to prevent them from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Qualification does not differ by state, so residents in California must meet the same criteria as those in any other state.

Duration of Work Credits

Work credits form the cornerstone of SSDI eligibility. These credits are earned through work history and paying into Social Security. Typically, one needs 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years preceding the disability, but younger workers may qualify with fewer credits. The exact number of credits required depends on the age at which the disability occurs.

Application Process for SSDI

The application process for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) requires thorough preparation, accurate submission of applications, and an understanding of state-specific protocols, such as those in California.

Gathering Documentation

To begin, applicants must collect all necessary documentation, which includes medical records, work history, and personal identification. These documents serve as evidence of the disability and its impact on the applicant’s ability to work. Medical records should be detailed, covering all relevant treatments, diagnoses, and prognoses. Work history is necessary to demonstrate past employment and the inability to continue working due to the disability.

Submitting Your Application

Once the documentation is ready, the applicant can proceed with submitting the application. This can be done online, by phone, or by visiting a local Social Security office. The Social Security Administration typically takes three to five months to review the initial application. They assess both medical and non-medical eligibility to ensure that applicants meet the required criteria for SSDI benefits.

California Specifics

In California, the application process follows the federal guidelines, but applicants should also be aware of any additional state-specific resources and support services. California may offer supplementary assistance or have particular points of contact that can facilitate the application process. It’s essential to consult with a local Social Security office for the most accurate and relevant guidance for California residents.

Expected Wait Times and Factors

When applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), applicants should anticipate a wait time that can last several months. The length of this period hinges on multiple factors, including the intricacies of the case, the efficiency of the processing offices, and, occasionally, the state in which the application is filed.

Initial Application Review

The initial phase of the SSDI application process typically spans three to five months. Within this time, the Social Security Administration (SSA) assesses whether applicants meet the non-medical eligibility requirements and examines their ability to support themselves financially due to their disability. For instance, applicants in California are subject to the same federal evaluation criteria as other states, but localized case volumes might influence processing times.

Reconsideration and Appeals

If an initial SSDI claim is denied, applicants have the option to request reconsideration, an appeal process that can extend the waiting period. In this second stage, the average wait time can be variable, and is dependent on the specifics of the appeal and the workload of the appellate bodies. 

In instances where benefits are denied and the client is facing a protracted elimination period, lawyers can pursue an appeal. A lawyer will act promptly, as the appeal must be filed within 60 days of the denial notice. Strategic appeal planning, targeting the initial cause of denial, and preparing for a hearing before an administrative law judge are crucial steps in this process.

Should the appeal proceed beyond reconsideration to an administrative law judge hearing, applicants could face additional months of waiting before a resolution is reached.

Managing Finances While Awaiting Approval

While waiting for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) approval, individuals must navigate financial management with care. Timely planning and exploring various aids can provide a safety net during this period.

Interim Assistance

Interim assistance programs may offer temporary financial support for those awaiting SSDI decisions. These programs, typically state-funded, serve as a bridge to cover basic living expenses. Eligibility and availability vary by location, so it’s crucial to contact local social service agencies to inquire about assistance.

Alternative Sources of Income

Exploring alternative sources of income is vital during the SSDI waiting period. This could include part-time employment compatible with the individual’s abilities or passive income sources. Other possibilities are unemployment benefits, if applicable, or tapping into personal savings with prudence to ensure financial stability.

Our Law Firm Can Expedite Processing Requests

Lawyers may seek expedited processing for their clients under specific conditions. For example, cases that fall under the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances or those involving a Terminal Illness (TERI) can be fast-tracked. Being well-versed with the SSA’s expedited processes can significantly reduce the waiting period before benefits begin, which our team of attorneys are.