Have you ever found yourself anxiously awaiting a reconsideration decision, wondering how long the process really takes? You’re not alone; the waiting game can be incredibly stressful and confusing, leaving many to question if their appeal will ever be resolved. In this article, we will explain the case processing times we’ve experienced during the reconsideration of the SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) appeal process and how you can help the Social Security Administration (SSA) process your claim.
Overview of SSDI Reconsideration Process
If your initial SSDI application is denied, you may file an appeal. This first appeal is called the request for reconsideration. During the reconsideration stage, a different set of examiners review your appeal to determine if you are disabled. The appeal is filed with the SSA and is processed by Disability Determination Service (DDS). DDS is a state agency office contracted by the SSA to review your medical record and obtain updated records from your medical sources to decide if you can perform your past work or other work in the national economy, and therefore eligible for SSDI benefits.
Timeline for Receiving a Reconsideration Decision
Several years ago, the processing time averaged 3–4 months. However, the most updated average processing times as of 2023 show that wait times have doubled to approximately seven months. At LaPorte Law Firm, we have seen a continued slowdown in case processing times in the last year. Case processing at the reconsideration stage can take 9–12 months, which reflects a trend of longer processing times compared to previous years.
Factors Influencing Processing Times
The time it takes for a disability reconsideration can be influenced by various factors, including timely submission and the workloads of the professionals involved. In recent years, staffing shortages and caseloads appear to be the driving factor in slowed case processing.
Staff shortages
Staff shortages within the Social Security Administration have been exacerbated by budget cuts, leading to slower processing times for disability claims. A 2024 analysis indicated that these budget cuts and shortages resulted in worsened client services, with processing bottlenecks becoming more pronounced.
In our firm’s experience, cases at the reconsideration stage can sit for many months before they are assigned to an analyst. Once assigned to an analyst, the appeal processing proceeds normally, taking only a few months before a decision is made.
Incomplete claims
In some cases, an incomplete SSDI claim or appeal can cause delay at the reconsideration stage. Common deficiencies in claims include missing treatment records, diagnostic test results, work history forms, or third-party evidence, all of which can impede the reconsideration process.
If an initial application lacks important documentation at the time of submission, the examiner may need to issue a request for additional evidence, effectively halting the process until all requested documents are received. The examiner may also need to make clarifications regarding medical conditions, job duties, or daily activities, and responding to these inquiries can take weeks or months, further extending the overall reconsideration timeline.
The delayed review of medical records can also contribute to longer wait times in the reconsideration process for disability claims. Therefore, it is crucial to provide complete information at the initial and reconsideration stages to avoid further delay.
Likelihood of Approval During Reconsideration
The most recently available data shows that 15% of cases at the reconsideration stage are approved. Approvals are more likely to occur in subsequent appeal stages, such as a disability hearing, rather than at the reconsideration phase.
Initial disability claims and claims at the reconsideration stage can be denied due to insufficient medical evidence demonstrating how a condition limits the applicant’s ability to work. A lack of information regarding their work history, treatments, surgeries, or medications can also lead to denial of disability claims. Technical errors, such as missed deadlines or missing documents, can also contribute to initial denials of disability applications.
If you receive a denial, it is important to review the denial notice carefully to understand the reasons for the denial. Then, when you file a request for reconsideration, make sure to provide complete and accurate information to ensure that the SSA has all evidence of your disability.
Tips for Expediting the Reconsideration Process
To move your reconsideration along more quickly, keep these tips in mind:
Know the timeline to file an appeal
After you receive a denial from the SSA, you have 60 days to file an appeal, and adhering to this timeline prevents any unnecessary delays in your case. It is advisable to file your appeal promptly after the initial denial.
Submit complete documentation
At the reconsideration stage, the Social Security Administration will review updated medical treatment information. Keeping the SSA updated about your medical treatment can aid in expediting the review of your reconsideration. And if you failed to submit all requested information at the initial application, it is important to submit the information with an appeal at the reconsideration stage. This includes information about your work history and any other requested forms. Accurate completion of all necessary forms and submission of relevant legal documentation is essential to improve your chances of approval during the reconsideration stage.
Follow up on your claim
Effective communication with state examiners can help avoid delays in the reconsideration process and improve the chances of success. If an examiner has requested additional information or a completed questionnaire, it is important to respond as soon as possible so that your case can continue to process.
You can also check on the status of your claim by creating a my Social Security account online.
Managing Expectations During the Wait
As discussed, the backlog of pending claims has escalated dramatically and the average wait time for a decision on a disability appeal has increased. Preparing yourself for the extended wait and managing your expectations will make the process more manageable.
While waiting for your reconsideration decision, continue seeing your doctors and adhere to your prescribed treatment plan to ensure that your medical file remains updated and relevant. It is important to submit any new medical notes or test results to your file during the waiting period, as this additional evidence can support your case. It is also important to notify the SSA promptly of any changes in your address, contact information, work status, or other changes in your circumstances.
What to Do If Your Appeal Is Denied
If your request for reconsideration is denied, the next step is to appeal by requesting a hearing before a Social Security administrative law judge (ALJ). An ALJ will review the medical evidence and take testimony to determine if you are disabled. At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to testify and explain to the ALJ how your disability impacts your ability to work.
Role of Social Security Disability Attorneys
Social Security disability attorneys can help gather the necessary documentation and submit additional arguments on appeal, which is vital for success in the reconsideration phase. It may be particularly important if there is any missing or inaccurate information submitted at the initial application stage. Legal representation early in the disability application process can increase the probability of receiving a positive decision.
At LaPorte Law Firm, we have experience representing claimants at the initial level and all levels of appeal, and we know the best ways to correspond with the SSA. This helps minimize delays and keep your appeal on track.
For help or more information with your SSDI application, reach out to us today.
FAQs
You can check the status of your application or appeal by creating an account on SSA.gov. There, you can check the process of your appeal and when SSA expects to make a decision. You can also call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
It typically takes the SSA approximately 3–4 months to review and decide on your appeal. But with case backlogs, case processing has slowed. Now, it’s taking 9–2 months to receive a decision.
Case processing times vary, and the SSA is not bound by any deadlines. If you haven’t received a reconsideration decision with the expected processing times, you can check the status of your appeal online or by calling the SSA number.
