Social Security Disability - The Time Frame For Approval

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How Long Does It Take To Be Approved for Social Security Disability or SSI?

Michigan Disability Lawyers

There is not a set time frame for how long it takes to be approved for Social Security Disability benefits. The length of time depends on whether the applicant is approved at the initial claim stage or later on during the appeal process after a hearing. Each level of the process takes time.

After filing an initial application, the Social Security Administration can take anywhere from 90-120 days to make a determination on your disability claim. If your initial application is denied, in some state you can request a reconsideration of the examiner’s decision, but this is not available in Michigan. In Michigan, the next level of recourse is to file a request for a hearing with an administrative law judge or ALJ.

Due to the large number of disability claims currently pending, it usually 12 to 18 months to get a disability hearing. The ALJ will take a fresh look at your claim and any medical evidence you have submitted. Prior the hearing, your Social Security Disability lawyer should submit a hearing memo or written brief explaining why you are entitled to disability benefits.

During the hearing, the ALJ will ask questions about your medical impairments, treatment and work history. A vocational expert will also be present at the hearing. The ALJ will pose a series of hypothetical questions to the vocational expert to determine whether the Claimant can perform any work in the national economy.

Following the hearing, the ALJ can take approximately 30-90 days to make a determination on your claim. The national approval rate at the ALJ hearing stage is 44 percent. This includes represented and unrepresented claimants. You can significantly increase your chances of winning your disability claim by hiring an experienced Michigan Social Security Disability attorney to advocate on your behalf.

The Social Security Disability lawyers at Lee Steinberg, P.C. can help you with the application process. Because approximately 70% of applicants are denied at the initial application stage, it is important the application be thoroughly completed with all medical records are included.

For all disability needs, please call the Michigan Social Security attorneys at 1-800-LEE-FREE (1-800-533-3733). Our team of experienced Michigan disability lawyers are here to answer your questions and win your case. The consultation is free and there is no fee unless we get your benefits.