SOCIAL SECURITY: HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE...?

One of the most common questions we get about Social Security is, "How long will it take......."  How long does it take to get the first decision?  How long will the appeal take?  If I win my case, how long before I receive my check?  With these questions in mind, our advocates have answered as many of those questions as possible below.  Remember however, these answers are based on our experience and may vary in different parts of the country, or even from one office to another.  These are, after all, estimates, not promises.

How long will it take to get a decision on my initial disability application?  Our experience has been 90 to 120 days.  Some sooner, some later.  By the way, be sure to appeal that decision if it is not favorable.

How long does it take if I have to appeal?  We tell people in Alabama to expect at least 12 months.  If it gets done sooner, you'll be happy.

After my hearing, how long before I get a decision?  If I had to pick an average time, I would say about 6 weeks.  It can be sooner or it can be longer.

If I win my appeal, how long before my back pay check arrives?  This really can vary a great deal.  Usually 30 to 60 days.  We've seen it happen in a week and we've seen it take 60 days or more.

How long does a disability hearing usually last?  45 minutes would be about average.  We've seen them last over an hour - but not usually.

How long do I have to appeal an unfavorable decision on a disability application?  60 days by law.  You can add 5 more days for mailing time.

I'm getting a disability check but have had a continuing disability review (CDR).  Social Security says they are terminating my benefits.  How long do I have to appeal this decision?
  • 60 days to appeal the decision, but 
  • Only 10 days to request that you continue receiving your benefits pending the appeal
If I get benefits terminated because of a continuing disability review, how long will my notice be prior to stopping my check?  Two months.

How long must I be off work before I file a disability claim?  Not even one day.  File as soon as you know you have a condition that is expected to keep you from working for 12 months or more.


 

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