How long does it take for Social Security Disability appeals?It should be noted that reconsideration appeal decisions are often made very quickly. This is because most of the case development that was done on the initial application for disability is very recent. The medical records, as well, are also most likely very recent. And, in cases where the claimant has not been back to see one of their doctors it may be that there are no additional medical records to evaluate. So, while a decision on an initial claim will average 90-120 days, a reconsideration appeal decision is often completed in less than half that amount of time. In cases where no additional medical treatment has been indicated by the claimant, and the evidence that was previously submitted for the application level is beginning to "age out" (become older than 60 days), it may be that the reconsideration examiner will need to schedule a consultative medical exam. In other cases, it may be that the reconsideration appeal will be done very quickly with no real purpose other than to verify that the first examiner who worked on the disability application made a valid decision that does not need to be overturned. Regarding reconsideration approval-denial statistics, to be more specific, in a recent year (according to data provided by the Social Security Administration), approximately 16 percent of SSDI (Social Security Disability insurance) cases were approved at the reconsideration level, while only 11 percent of SSI disability cases were approved. Nationally, about 15 percent of reconsideration appeals are typically approved. In general, reconsiderations have a fairly low rate of approval. And it is for this reason that their primary utility value is in simply getting through this step so that a disability hearing may be requested. For more, see How long does a Social Security Disability appeal take?. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: How long does a disability decision take in North Carolina? How long does it take to file for disability? How much does Social Security permanent disability pay? How much back pay will I get for SSI? What Are The Reasons For Social Security Disability Cases Being Denied? How Likely are You to Win Your Disability Case? Social Security Disability Claims and Medical Exams Answering questions at a Social Security Medical exam Does Social Security approve a disability application the first time? Tips for Social Security Disability Psychological and mental testing What to say at a Social Security medical exam Will I qualify for disability Benefits in New York Getting a Disability Lawyer in New York How do Disability Lawyers in New York get paid their fees? |
