Social security disability claimants know that they face a long wait for a decision. What they often wonder is what we are doing while you are waiting. We’d like to shed some light on that question.
Initial application:
• Timeline: It takes between 2-8 months (average 4-6 months) to get a decision after you submit your initial application.
• What we do in the meantime: Track providers and impairments. Track deadlines and make sure all required forms are in on time. Help you complete required paperwork and update Social Security on your medical providers/new conditions to make sure they request relevant records. By law, Social Security must obtain, including paying the cost, all of your medical records that you told them about.
If you’re denied, we request Reconsideration:
• Timeline: It takes between 2-8 months (average 4-6 months) to get a decision on a Request for Reconsideration.
• What we do in the meantime: Help you complete necessary paperwork, track deadlines and make sure all required forms are in on time, update Social Security on your medical providers/new conditions to make sure they request relevant records. It is still Social Security’s responsibility to get these records.
If you’re denied, we request a Hearing:
• Timeline: It takes between 12-15 months to get a hearing after submitting the Request.
• What we do in the meantime: Keep our own updated list of your medical providers so that we can request records when hearing is scheduled.
• Once the hearing is scheduled: We now request all updated medical records, review all of your medical records in Social Security’s file, meet with you to prepare you for the hearing, consult with your treating provider, work with your treating doctor to develop a doctor letter, and prepare a legal brief to the judge on your behalf.
In some cases, there are special circumstances that will result in us taking other actions. Your attorney will decide if your case requires any of the following special actions:
• Look at other benefits you are receiving or may be eligible for and analyze what recommendations to make to you.
• Help you find acceptable medical providers.
• Work with your vocational rehabilitation counselor.
• Coordinate with your Personal Injury or Workers Comp lawyer.
• Analyze any earnings you’ve had after your alleged onset date.
• Consult with your past employers.
• Review lay witness statements we’ve received on your behalf.
• Ask for congressional interest on your case.