How Long Will it Take Me to Get an SSD Hearing?
It used to be fairly easy for attorneys and advocates to predict the wait times for SSD hearings. Not anymore. Hearing wait times can range from a few months to years, depending on where in the United States the hearing takes place and other factors of your case.
Sadly, the average time it takes get an answer on your Social Security Disability application only continues to increase. This is due to huge backlogs in the system. Even with proposed reform, the government simply has too many people waiting to file disability claims. The government just does not have the capacity to handle things more quickly.
For this reason, it is critical that you file your initial application as soon as possible. Getting the process started early may shorten the time it takes to get the benefits you need and deserve.
What you should do while waiting for your hearing to be scheduled
Waiting for your Social Security Disability hearing is very difficult. While you are waiting the Social Security Administration may ask you to complete some paperwork. It is very important that you return all forms to the Social Security Administration. You may also be asked by Social Security to see their doctor for a Consultative Exam.
Continue seeing your doctors regularly while waiting for your hearing to be scheduled. The medical records from this time will be very important for your disability claim. It is also important that your attorney be aware of any changes in your medical condition and if you are hospitalized.
Many people are in financial distress while waiting for their hearing to be scheduled. Returning to work may seem like the only option. It is important to speak with an attorney to understand how returning to work will affect your disability claim.
Speeding up the process
Unfortunately there is not much that can be done to speed up the process. The wait times for a Social Security Disability hearing to be scheduled are long.
If you are experiencing severe financial hardship it may be possible to expedite your hearing by filing a Dire Need Request.
To talk to an attorney about your SSD hearing, contact attorney Cynthia Berger and her support staff at our Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, law office.
