Applying for SSDI may become an exhausting prospect. From initial application to a decision may take up to a full year.
When that decision comes in, what if it is a denial? It is normal to face rejection on the first go-round in seeking SSDI benefits. There are steps an applicant may take to appeal the decision and hopefully get a more favorable decision. Stock up on patience when waiting for an appeal to conclude.
Why does an SSDI application face denial?
An applicant may wonder why an initial application came back denied. The truth is, most of the time, these denials are due to what the agency deems a lack of medical proof. This may mean that all a claimant must do is get further medical reporting, either from the same practitioners or others, that proves the medical condition qualifies for SSD benefits. If an applicant receives further medical evidence after the denial, he or she may resubmit it for consideration.
What is the reasonable expectation for an appeal?
What if the medical evidence seems sufficient, and yet the application does not go through? An applicant has approximately 60 days to file to request a reconsideration. The reviewer revisits the same information and may decide to authorize it. However, this is a rare occurrence. Most of the time, the application still faces denial. After the reconsideration fails, an applicant has another 60 days to ask for a hearing before the board. Prepare for a lengthy wait to get a date. The average time is between 10 and 13 months.
Unfortunately, the SSDI application process may take a few years to resolve and begin paying benefits. Having this information upfront, as well as assistance in getting through the process, may help in making appropriate financial adjustments.