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How long does it take for a lawyer to get your disability? You’re not alone. Applying for disability benefits can be drawn out and even irritating at times.
Many people seek the help of a lawyer to speed things up, but even then, it’s essential to understand what to expect. This article will break down the steps, explain timelines, and give you an idea of how long it usually takes to get a decision on your disability claim.
What Affects the Timeline of Getting Disability Benefits?
Several factors influence how long a lawyer can get your disability benefits. Each disability case is unique, and several steps are involved, from gathering medical evidence to waiting for a hearing date. Let’s explore the factors that may impact the timeline.
Type of Disability Claim
The type of disability claim you file can impact the timeline. There are two primary types of claims: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both programs have different eligibility criteria, and processing times may vary.
- SSDI Claims: These are for individuals who have worked and paid into Social Security. They may take longer to process because they require detailed work and medical history.
- SSI Claims: These are for individuals with limited income and resources. These cases move faster, but they also depend on financial evaluations.
What Is the Lawyer’s Role in the Process?
A lawyer is crucial in helping you get your social security disability benefits. However, it’s essential to know that while an attorney can improve your chances of getting approved, they can’t necessarily control every aspect of the process.
The lawyer will help you obtain the benefits you deserve, guiding you through each step of the disability claims process.
Gathering Medical Evidence
One of the most crucial parts of a disability claim is gathering medical records and evidence. The lawyer will work closely with medical professionals, coordinating with your doctors and specialists to gather all necessary documents for the claims process.
This includes filing the initial application and ensuring it meets the administration’s definition of disability. As managed by the Social Security Administration’s office, the medical determination process can take time—sometimes even months.
Throughout this time, the lawyer will contact medical services and ensure that everything is submitted accurately to recover the benefits you’re entitled to.
How Long Does It Take for a Lawyer to Get Your Disability?
Applying for SSDI, SSI, or SSD benefits involves completing paperwork, filing appeals, and dealing with denials. The time it takes varies.
Your lawyer will help you apply, file, and appeal if necessary. The federal court system, appeal council, and Social Security office are all part of this claims journey, which may take longer than expected, especially if your initial application is denied.
Filing Paperwork and Making Appeals
The lawyer ensures that all required paperwork is completed correctly and submitted on time, reducing delays and giving you the best chance for approval.
If the initial decision leads to a denial, the lawyer will help file an appeal with the appropriate appeal council, taking it up to the federal court if needed. These steps are crucial for anyone entitled to receive disability benefits, as any missteps may cause longer waits.
The Role of an Experienced Disability Attorney
An experienced disability attorney will work to guide you through each step of the process, from applying and filing claims to appealing if the benefits are denied.
They can interact with law firms, determine the applicant’s ability to work and communicate, and, e.g., n e.g., with federal courts and appeal councils. The process is often expected to last several months, but having a knowledgeable law firm behind you can help speed things up.
A lawyer’s role doesn’t always speed up the disability process, but their expertise will ensure that every step is handled correctly.
Whether it’s the Social Security Administration’s review, a federal court decision, or obtaining back benefits, the attorney will guide you, ensuring nothing is undone.
Frart to finish, their goal is to help recover the benefits you need and deserve, within the framework defined by law. If you have questions or need further clarification, contact us.
Your path to receiving disability benefits may involve waiting, but with a skilled disability lawyer, I feel bothered when you are entitled to the best possible outcome.
How Long Does It Take for a Lawyer to File a Disability Claim?
How long does it take for a lawyer to get your disability? Once you hire a lawyer, they will start working on your case immediately. Filing the initial application usually doesn’t take long, but the time it takes to gather all the necessary documentation can vary.
Initial Application
- Timeframe: Filing the initial application typically takes 1-3 weeks, depending on how quickly your lawyer can gather all the necessary documents.
- Waiting for a Decision: After submitting your application, it can take 3 to 6 months to get a decision. Some cases may take longer, depending on the complexity of your medical condition and the backlog at the Social Security Administration (SSA).
What Happens If Your Claim Is Denied?
A lot of disability claims are turned down right away. If this occurs, don’t be alarmed; this is typical. Your lawyer will help you appeal the decision, which can add more time to the process.
Reconsideration
If your claim is denied, the first step is to file for reconsideration. This involves reviewing your claim again, often with additional medical evidence.
- Timeframe: The reconsideration process typically takes 2 to 4 months.
Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
If your claim is denied again after reconsideration, your lawyer will request a hearing before an ALJ. This is where your lawyer’s representation is most valuable, as they will argue your case and present your medical evidence. How long does it take for a lawyer to get your disability?
- Timeframe: Unfortunately, waiting for a hearing can take the longest — usually 12 to 18 months. This depends on the location and the number of cases waiting to be heard.
How Long Does It Take to Get Disability After a Hearing?
If the ALJ approves your claim after the hearing, you should receive your disability benefits within a few months.
Decision Notification
- Timeframe: After the hearing, it can take 2 to 3 months to receive a written decision from the judge.
Payment
Once approved, you’ll receive back payments from the date you applied, and regular monthly benefits will begin shortly after.
- Timeframe: After approval, it can take another 1 to 2 months to receive your back pay and start getting monthly disability checks.
Can a Lawyer Speed Up the Process?
A lawyer can only speed up some of the process, but they can ensure that everything is done as efficiently as possible.
Lawyers know the system and will ensure that all forms are completed correctly, that no deadlines are missed, and that the proper evidence is submitted. This can prevent unnecessary delays.
Expedited Cases
In certain situations, some cases may be fast-tracked. For example, individuals with terminal illnesses or very severe disabilities may qualify for expedited processing. Your lawyer will know if your case qualifies and will work to get your claim reviewed quickly.
Also read: How long does it take for apple cider vinegar to cure toenail fungus?
In the end, when asking, How long does it take for a lawyer to get your disability? It’s clear that while having a lawyer can streamline the process, the timeline is influenced by many factors.
Depending on the number of stages of the appeal, the whole process can typically take anywhere from a few months to over two years.
