Everyday People Matter

How Long Does It Take for a Social Security Disability Claim to Be Processed?

| Feb 24, 2016 | Applying for benefits, Backlog of claims, Compassionate Allowances Program

The time it takes to receive a decision on social security disability benefits will depend on many factors. In many case, unfortunately, the process of approving claims is very slow because of the large backlog of claims at the Social Security Administration (SSA). The time delay is also due to the large number of disability beneficiaries, and the increase in the number of beneficiaries every year.

Typically however, you can expect a time gap of 30-90 days before your disability claim is processed. However, that is the average time, and some claims may not result in a decision for up to two years after the claim has been filed.

Simply stated, there are no definite answers about how long it will take for your claim to be processed. It usually takes time for your doctor’s office to provide the examiner with the medical documentation and evidence that is necessary to decide your claim. Claims examiners are very busy, and may be in charge of processing hundreds of claims.

If your claim is rejected or denied, you may have to appeal which means a further delay. Typically, you can expect a decision on an appeal after about 60 days after filing an appeal.

Persons whose disabilities qualify under a Compassionate Allowances listing may, however, be able to have their claims processing expedited. In these cases, the claim may be processed and approved within a few days after filing. Typically, compassionate allowance claims will involve certain aggressive and fast-progressing types of cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and other degenerative conditions.

To learn more about how long the SSA will take to approve your claim or for help filing a claim, speak to a qualified Atlanta Social Security disability benefits attorney as soon as possible.