EspañolA prevalent and daunting myth is that it takes a full decade to get approved for Social Security Disability benefits. Attorney Josh and Jeremy Worley clarifies that while the process is lengthy, a 10-year timeline is a myth. The reality involves a multi-stage journey with variable wait times at each step. An initial application typically takes 6-9 months for a decision. If denied and appealed to "reconsideration," another 6-9 months is common. A second denial leads to a hearing request, which may take 6-9 months to be scheduled, with a judge's decision following 2-3 months after the hearing itself.
This puts the total timeline for a case that goes to a hearing at roughly 2 to 3 years, not 10. Josh emphasizes that the key to avoiding unnecessary delays is to file appeals immediately within the 60-day deadline, rather than abandoning the claim and restarting later. While the wait is challenging, successful claimants receive back pay covering the entire period from their application date, providing significant financial relief upon approval.
Myth Verdict
Busted. It does not take 10 years to get approved for Social Security Disability. A more realistic timeline for a case that goes through a hearing is approximately 2 to 3 years, depending on processing delays at each stage of appeal.
Key Insights
- Standard timeline is 2-3 years: From initial application to a hearing decision, not a decade.
- Appeals are critical: Immediately appealing denials within 60 days keeps your case moving; restarting from scratch adds years.
- Patience is required: Expect 6-9 months per stage (application, reconsideration, hearing scheduling).
- Back pay compensates the wait: Upon approval, you receive a lump sum for all months you were eligible during the process.
- The hearing decision is the final wait: After your hearing, it typically takes 2-3 months to receive the judge's written decision.
