How Long Does It Take To Get A Disability Approval Letter?

Initial Application

To start with, you will have to submit your application either online or to your local SSA office. They also accept applications by phone. Just call their toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 and a representative will get in touch with you. Aside from your personal information, the SSA’s application forms will also require you to describe:

• your impairments (the more detailed, the better)
• treatment sources
• any information related to your alleged disability

Of course, you will also have to submit medical evidence to prove that you really are disabled. This may include doctor’s reports, medical records, and recent test results. The SSA field office will then assess your eligibility. Afterward, your application is forwarded to the Disability Determination Services (DDS).  The DDS are state agencies responsible for evaluating your disability based on your medical records. They will look at the medical evidence you provided but they may also do their own investigation if needed. If the DDS deems that you really are disabled, they will return your case to the SSA field office for benefit computation. Should the DDS found out that you are not disabled, your file will be kept in the field office in case you want to file an appeal.

Request for Reconsideration

If you got denied at the initial application stage, you can still file for reconsideration. According to SSA data, the reconsideration process usually takes a little over 100 days. First, you need to submit the reconsideration forms and new medical evidence (if any). Then the SSA will send your application back to the DDS where it will be assigned to a different disability examiner. They may also send you to an SSA doctor if you didn’t get to go the first time. The examiner will then review the previous decision and consider the new medical evidence submitted. Whether you got approved or denied, you’ll receive the decision either online or by mail. You can also check your SSA account for updates.

ALJ Hearing

Should the SSA deny your request for reconsideration, you can still appeal for a disability hearing. At this stage, you will have to go to court and defend your claim before an administrative law judge (ALJ). Depending on your performance, the ALJ will either confirm or reverse the DDS’ decision. Waiting time for ALJ hearings often vary per state. But most of the time, it can take a year or two. After the hearing, it can take up to two months for the judge to come up with a decision. Then the decision will be drafted by decision writers which can also take a couple of months. Once the decision is finalized, you will receive either an approval or denial notice by mail or online.