How Long Does a Social Security Disability Claim Take?

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Before you even start to file your social security disability claim, you have to know one thing about the process: it is not easy. If you are expecting that you will send in your documents and you will have your first check within a week, you are mistaken. The entire process is filled with potential pot holes, because they do not want you to succeed. And a lot of people end up getting denied. So you have to approach the process calmly and with the right attitude. And to help your chances, you may want to connect with reputable Arizona social security disability benefits lawyers so they can take a look at your case.

Talking with an attorney is really helpful, as they can assess your situation to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for disability benefits. They have experienced these cases with their other clients, which means they can give you an accurate indication about whether or not you are going to get the benefits that you need. And they will also help you during the filing and appeals process, depending on how long it takes for your case to get approved.

Wait Time

If you are wondering how long it will take for you to get your case decision, the wait time is usually 30 to 90 days from the moment they receive your application. But it could take even longer in some cases. And after those 30 to 90 days, there is a 70 percent chance your claim will get denied. You may feel really disheartened during that moment, but you have to understand that it is simply how the system works. Most cases only go through on appeal, which can take an additional 60 days after you receive your first decision.

There are a number of reasons why the wait time is so problematic. Many individuals or families are relying on the potential income they would get through disability benefits. Since you are unable to work because of your disability, you are not exactly bringing in an income during those weeks when you are waiting on a decision. So it may be a good idea to mentally prepare for a three to four month wait from your initial application to the moment when you will get your first check. If it is possible, you may want to stay with a friend or family member until you have a proper resolution about disability benefits.

Is There a Quicker Process?

The only time an applicant can request for a quicker decision is when their disability claim has a terminal condition attached to it. These individuals will go through the “TERI” process, which is a lot quicker. However, you will have to go through the same process of proving your disability through various documents and other materials. But the process should get done in under a month when you are doing it through the TERI process. As a reminder, those who do not have a terminal illness should never try and apply through the TERI process.