How Long Does the SSDI Application Process Take?
- Royce Nunley
- May 30
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 5
Understanding Timelines and How to Avoid Delays in Your Disability Claim
One of the most frustrating parts of applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is not knowing how long the process will take. If you're living with a serious medical condition and can't work, every day without financial support feels overwhelming. At The Nunley Law Group, we help clients navigate these uncertain timelines and take the right steps to keep their claim moving forward.
So, How Long Does It Really Take?
The answer depends on several factors, but here’s a general breakdown of the SSDI timeline:
Initial Application Stage (3–6 months)
When you first submit your SSDI application, it goes to a local Social Security office and then to a state agency that makes disability determinations. This phase typically takes 3 to 6 months, but can be shorter or longer depending on:
How quickly your medical records are collected
The complexity of your condition
SSA’s workload and backlog at the time
If your application is complete and well-documented, you’ll improve your chances of receiving a decision faster.
Reconsideration (First Appeal) (2–4 months)
If your initial application is denied—something that happens to nearly 70% of applicants—you have 60 days to file for reconsideration. This stage usually takes another 2 to 4 months, and unfortunately, many reconsideration decisions also result in denial. Having an experienced Social Security Disability Specialist can help improve these odds.
Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (12–24 months)
If you’re denied again, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is often the longest phase, taking 12 to 24 months or more depending on the hearing office’s caseload in your area. However, many applicants are finally approved at this stage—especially with legal representation.
Appeals Council and Federal Court (Several Months to Over a Year)
If the ALJ denies your claim, you can appeal to the SSA’s Appeals Council and then to federal court if necessary. These final stages can extend the process by many additional months, but they are rarely needed for the average claim.
What Can Delay the SSDI Process?
Several common issues can slow your application down:
Incomplete forms or missing documentation
Delays in receiving medical records from your doctors
Incorrect or inconsistent information in your claim
Backlogs at local SSA offices or hearing centers
How an SSDI Attorney Can Help Speed Things Up
At The Nunley Law Group, we know how to avoid costly delays and give your application the best possible start. Here’s how we help:
Ensure your application is complete and accurate from the start
Gather the right medical evidence to support your claim
Communicate directly with your doctors to obtain timely records
Monitor your application’s progress and respond quickly to SSA requests
Represent you at every appeal stage, including hearings, if necessary
An experienced disability attorney can't force the SSA to move faster, but we can dramatically reduce avoidable delays, improve your chances of success at each stage, and help you stay informed and prepared throughout the process.
Need Help Starting Your SSDI Application Process?
If you're wondering how long the SSDI application process will take—or you're already stuck in a delay—The Nunley Law Group is here to help. We focus on Social Security Disability cases and understand the urgency of getting you the benefits you deserve.
Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward peace of mind and financial stability.
Other Helpful Resources
| About the Author
Email. Royce@nunleylawgroup.com
Tel. 586-778-4555
Royce Nunley is the founder and lead attorney at The Nunley Law Group, where he represents clients in the areas of Family Law, Criminal Defense, Social Security Disability, and Personal Injury. Known for his client-focused approach and legal insight, Royce is deeply committed to delivering personalized legal solutions tailored to each individual's needs.
Royce earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish, Cum Laude, from Wayne State University, and continued his education at Wayne State University Law School, where he received his Juris Doctorate, also Cum Laude. His academic excellence laid a strong foundation for a career marked by both compassion and tenacity in the courtroom.
Royce has been recognized for his outstanding work in Family Law, earning the distinction of Super Lawyers "Rising Star" for six consecutive years—2019 through 2024—an honor reserved for only the top 2.5% of attorneys in the state.
With a reputation for taking the time to truly understand his clients and their legal challenges, Royce ensures that every person who walks through his door receives the respect, transparency, and tireless advocacy they deserve.
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