At Pond Lehocky Disability, we guide clients to minimize delays and strengthen cases. We know it is necessary to set realistic expectations, reduce stress, and have a timeline.

Stage 1: The Initial Application (6 to 8 Months)

Submit an initial application to the Social Security Administration (SSA). This application asks for:

• Basic personal and financial information
• A detailed work history
• Information about your medical condition
• Supporting medical evidence from your doctors, clinics, and hospitals

SSA sends your application to a Disability Determination Services (DDS) office. Claims examiners and medical professionals at DDS review your file. The purpose is to determine whether your condition meets qualifying disability standards.

Average wait time is 6 to 8 months. It’s important to know that over 62% of initial applications are denied. Most denials occur because of missing documentation, incomplete info, or misunderstandings.

Stage 2: Reconsideration (6 Months on Average)

If your initial application is denied, the next step is to file a Request for Reconsideration. A new claims examiner, uninvolved in the original decision, reviews your case again.

You can and should submit additional or updated medical evidence at this point. Updated test results, treatment records, or doctor statements can have a significant impact.

Average wait time is 3 to 9 months. However, this stage still results in approval for only 16% of applicants. The majority of people will need to proceed to the next stage: a disability hearing.

Stage 3: The Disability Hearing (12 Months on Average)

To have a claim reconsidered, request a hearing from an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is your chance to explain your situation in detail and directly. It’s often the most important step, as it’s the first face-to-face with someone reviewing your claim.

At the hearing, you can:

• Testify about how your disability impacts your daily life
• Submit additional medical evidence
• Bring in expert witnesses (such as medical or vocational experts)
• Be represented by an SSDI attorney

This stage clarifies issues that may have been misunderstood in the earlier process. You can tell your story in your own words. You can also point out important medical facts that the SSA may have overlooked. Supporting documents from your doctors can be extremely helpful. Letters explaining your limitations in everyday terms are powerful evidence.

An experienced SSDI attorney can guide you through the entire hearing process. They help prepare your testimony. They question expert witnesses. They argue your case clearly and professionally.

How Long Does It Take to Get Social Security Disability Benefits Approved?

The average wait time is 7 to 12 months or more, depending on how backlogged your local hearing office is. Some areas move faster, while others take much longer. The SSA prioritizes some cases, but most applicants wait for their turn.

After a hearing, approval rates are around 50%. This is true especially for well-documented applicants with legal representation. That makes this stage a real opportunity to win your case.

Let us handle the legal burden so that you can focus on your health, recovery, and peace of mind. We’re here to fight for the benefits you’ve earned and help you move forward with confidence.

Stage 4: Appeals Council and Federal Court (Several Months to Years)

If the ALJ denies your claim, you can continue appealing through additional steps. Although discouraging, many applicants succeed later with legal guidance and proper documentation.

You can request a review by the SSA’s Appeals Council. The Council may:

• Uphold the ALJ’s denial
• Send your case back for another hearing
• Reverse the decision and approve your claim

The average wait time for an Appeals Council decision is 6 months to over a year. Some cases move faster, but most are subject to lengthy reviews due to high demand and limited staff.

A lawsuit may be filed in federal court if the Appeals Council rejects your request. This is a formal legal process and can take well over a year.

Why Does It Take So Long? 

Several factors lead to longer wait times for SSDI claims, including:

• A high volume of applications
• Understaffed SSA and DDS offices
• Delays in gathering medical records or evidence
• Administrative backlogs, especially at the hearing level
• Incomplete or inaccurate applications requiring further clarification

Submit a complete, accurate application to reduce delays and improve approval chances.

How an SSD Attorney Can Help Speed Up the Process

A quick SSA process isn’t guaranteed, but an experienced SSD lawyer can help avoid delays.

At Pond Lehocky Disability, we work closely with you to:

• Complete your application thoroughly and accurately
• Gather and organize all relevant medical evidence.
• Communicate with your healthcare providers to obtain necessary documentation.
• Ensure deadlines are met and paperwork is submitted correctly.
• Represent you during hearings and appeals
• Prevent costly mistakes that could result in a denial or delay.

You Deserve Support and Clarity

Waiting for SSDI benefits is a personal, frustrating experience. You’ve already lost the ability to work. You shouldn’t lose sleep over claim submissions or appeal deadlines.

At Pond Lehocky Disability, we understand what you’re going through. We are familiar with the SSA system inside and out, and we know how to advocate for our clients with urgency and care.

Need Help with Your SSDI Claim?

If you’re applying for benefits, or if you’ve already been denied, don’t navigate the system on your own. Contact Pond Lehocky Disability today for a free consultation. We’ll help you build a strong claim, avoid delays, and fight for the benefits you deserve.