Typical Wait Times for Processing a Disability Claim and how to Speed-up the Process
Once you apply for disability benefits, it can often seem like forever before it is approved. However, the process normally takes a while to come to completion. The following is some important information for you to know regarding the timeline of disability claims.
What Is The Average Timeline?
There is no concrete answer to this question. Everyone’s claim is different, and therefore, all claims are considered on an individual basis. Sometimes a claim may take longer to process because there are multiple illnesses to consider. Similarly, some claims may be approved immediately due to the specific ailment the applicant has. However, these cases are rare and should not be considered to be within normal time constraints. As a rule of thumb, most disability cases that come through the Social Security Administration office take between six months to one year to go through the process.
What Factors Can Delay The process?
Sometimes there are factors at play that negatively affect the progress of a claim. Although some of these factors are not within an applicant’s control, most of them are. Some of the most common reasons a claim can be delayed include:
- There are errors in your application.
- Your application has not been filled out completely.
- There is a lack of medical evidence that supports your claim.
- You do not meet the specific guidelines set by the SSA to receive benefits
- There is a backlog of cases at the SSA office.
- Your doctors have not submitted the information the SSA has requested.
How Can You Speed Up the Process?
Since many of the factors are within an applicant’s control, there are many ways you can speed up the application process. Some ways you can speed up the application process include:
- Apply as soon as you know your disability is going to last at least one year.
- Make sure your claim is filled out accurately and completely.
- Hire a disability lawyer to help you file your claim.
- Make sure the contact information you provide is accurate and up to date.
- Make sure your medical history is accurate and complete.
- If necessary, get your medical records from your physician yourself and bring them to the claim examiner.
- Respond to correspondence from the SSA quickly.
- If necessary, expedite your appeals quickly.
- If applicable, request an expedited decision based on the dire need.
If you have questions regarding a disability application, contact Clauson Law, today. We can help you put together an application that can move smoothly through the process.
