Why SSDI Takes So Long – Navigating the Disability Claims Process

If it seems like disability claims take a while to get approved, it’s because it’s true. The average disability claim takes over 200 days. When you’re waiting for a decision on your application, you may wonder why SSDI takes so long.

There may be several reasons why disability claims take a long time. Some of these factors are beyond your control, such as a high number of applications and administrative budget cuts. Other things, like an incomplete application or missing medical evidence, are things that you can avoid with the help of a disability lawyer.

Pekas Smith: Arizona Disability Attorneys will help explain how you can make sure you don’t experience any undue delays in the process.

How Long Do Disability Claims Take?

According to Social Security, a disability claim takes 6 to 8 months to receive an initial decision. However, some applications take much longer. The time it takes for a disability claim varies depending on the issues being considered and the time needed for case review.

What is the average length for an SSDI application?

In 2023, CNBC reported that the average processing time for an SSDI application is 220 days or slightly more than seven months. Some wonder why SSDI takes so long. While applications may be denied quickly if an applicant is ineligible for technical reasons, when an application reaches medical consideration, approval may take longer.

Is it true that disability applications are taking longer than ever?

If it seems like disability claims are taking longer than ever, you’re right! The average processing time is 220 days. In 2019, an average application took 120 days to process (CNBC). Since 220 days is the average, some cases might take even longer.

SSA Disability Reconsideration – Average Processing Time

Source: Social Security Administration, Annual Data for Disability Reconsideration.

These figures are not for initial approval. Instead, they represent the average processing time for reconsideration of claims with a medical determination.

Why Are Disability Claims Taking So Long?

So, why does Social Security disability take so long? Here are some reasons why it may take the Social Security Administration seven months or more to process an application.

Claims Are Up

Social Security Disability Awards increased 3% in 2024 from the year before. That’s a total of 629,900 awards. From 1982–2023, the number of awards has increased, on average, by 1.4% per year.

Resources Are Down

Even though claims are up, administrative resources are down. SSA outlined plans to reach 50,000 employees by the end of fiscal year 2025, a decrease of roughly 7,150 staff members (13%). These reductions may lead to longer wait times for someone to review a claim.

Complex Medical Criteria

Disability determinations are made based on medical criteria. These criteria are detailed in the Social Security Blue Book Listing of Impairments. The needed medical documentation varies by impairment. These detailed requirements can mean significant time spent reviewing each application.

Incomplete Application or Missing Details

One reason why SSDI takes so long is that more medical information is needed. An examiner may ask the applicant to undergo an evaluation. They may be waiting for a care provider to send medical records. Claims examiners make their decisions based only on the information they have. If they need more information, it may stall an application and delay SSDI.

When you work with our Arizona disability attorneys here at Pekas Smith, you have a team of professionals to assist you in preparing medical evidence. We understand the medical criteria and the information examiners need to process your application.

Quality Review

The Social Security Administration occasionally conducts quality reviews of application processing. If your application is chosen, it may take longer to receive a decision, which is why SSDI takes so long.

Is a Fast Disability Application Always a Good Thing?

The first thing that happens when you apply for disability is a technical review. Someone checks whether you meet the basic requirements, such as an adequate work history. 37% of claims are denied at this stage, and this group of applicants receives their denial the fastest. If it seems like your claim is taking a long time, it may be a good thing because it could indicate that you are technically eligible. But if your application passes the technical review, it still must move to a medical determination. If the medical determination results in the claim being denied initially and denied again on appeal, it will move to the hearing phase.

It takes time for a case to move from an initial medical denial to a hearing before an administrative law judge. During this time, the applicant’s medical condition may worsen, and their disability may be more clearly documented. This may be one reason why previously denied claims are approved through administrative action.

How To Check Your Claim Status

When it comes to checking the status of your claim, there are many ways to keep up to date. The most convenient option is to check your claim status online. The SSA can also provide updates via phone or email.

Addressing Why SSDI Takes So Long

When you can’t work, you need your benefits as quickly as possible. Disability claims can indeed take a long time. It’s important to acknowledge this and plan as best you can. However, there are steps you can take to move your application through the process as quickly as possible. Pekas Smith: Arizona Disability Attorneys can help.

Submitting a complete application with supporting medical documentation can expedite your case. You may avoid delays while examiners seek more information. Our attorneys can prepare the information you need, relying on our knowledge of the evaluation criteria and how they might apply in your specific case.

If you receive a request for more information, our attorneys can help you respond promptly.
There are situations in which an applicant may qualify for expedited review or payments while a case is pending due to a presumptive disability. Our attorneys consider all possible options to help you receive your benefits.

Get Legal Help

Pekas Smith: Arizona Disability Attorneys represent clients in claims for disability benefits. We work diligently on your claim so you can receive the benefits you deserve through an efficient case process. That way, you don’t have to wonder why SSDI takes so long. Our team has the knowledge and experience to address every part of the claims process.

Contact us online or at 602.962.2818 today to discuss your case and start now.