SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY PROCESS

INITIAL APPLICATION

Apply immediately if you have become disabled and expect to be disabled for more than a year, as the process for Social Security disability can be lengthy. We can file an application for you once we receive your completed “new client packet”. You can also file online or make an appointment with your local Social Security office and file a disability claim in person or via phone by calling Social Security’s toll-free telephone number 800-772-1213. Your application will then be evaluated by a state disability agency. A decision to either award or deny benefits will be made and you will be notified in writing, by mail. It usually takes between three and six months to receive a decision.

RECONSIDERATION

If you are denied benefits at the initial level, we can appeal as soon as possible (within 60 days of the date on the denial notice). Social Security will then take a second look at your claim, along with any new and/or updated medical evidence. A decision to either award or deny benefits will be made and you will be notified in writing, by mail. It usually takes between three and six months to get a decision.

HEARING

If you are denied benefits at the reconsideration phase, you can then request a hearing in front of an administrative law judge (ALJ). It takes approximately 18-22 months from the date of the request to finally have a hearing in front of an administrative law judge.

APPEALS COUNCIL

If your claim is denied at the ALJ hearing stage, you have the right to appeal to Social Security's Appeals Council. This stage takes approximately 12 to 14 months from the date of request for review until the Appeals Council issues a decision in writing.