Social Security Timetable

Birmingham, Alabama

Start Immediately
Because the initial claim application is long and detailed, it is essential that your application is filled out accurately and filed as soon as possible. Before you begin your application, gather these important documents and have them with you when you file your claim:

• Medical treatment records
• Personal identification materials
• Prescription information
• Details about where you worked, dates, and the type of work performed
• Each care provider's name, phone number and address
• Any lab and test results
• W-2 forms and employment tax records

The Process
You can file an application for Social Security Disability over the phone, by mail, online or in person at the Social Security Administration office. The initial claim can take four to six months to be processed and for a decision to be made. If your claim is initially denied, don't be deterred. Statistically, about 75 percent of all claims are initially denied. Within 60 days after your denial letter is dated, you must file for reconsideration. The reconsideration is done by someone who did not partake in your initial review. New evidence may be submitted for this reconsideration.

Keep Appealing
About four to six months later, another decision will be made. If you are denied again, you have another 60 days to request an informal hearing. At the hearing, an administrative law judge will hear witness testimony and consider medical evidence. Within two to three months after the hearing, another decision will be made.

If you still denied, you can request a review by the Appeals Council. You have 60 days to make this request as well. If you are denied again, you have another 60 days to file a lawsuit in Federal district court. This is the end of the line. The Federal judge will award you benefits, ultimately deny your claim, or send it back to a lower court for another hearing.

Timeline Overview

• File claim
• 4 to 6 months later: claim processed, decision made
• If denied, within 60 days of denial: request reconsideration
• 4 to 6 months later: decision made
• If denied after reconsideration, within 60 days: request informal hearing
• Hearing occurs; judge considers testimony and medical evidence
• 2 to 3 months after hearing: decision made
• If judge denies, within 60 days: request a review by The Appeals Council
• If Appeals Council denies, within 60 days: file lawsuit in Federal district court
• From here you case will be: awarded disability benefits, ultimately denied, or sent back to a lower court for another hearing. (If you're successful, a check should arrive in 8-12 weeks)

If you are at any stage of filing for Social Security Disability benefits should contact our Birmingham disability lawyers today. We are experienced at handling disability claims and can help guide you through the appeals process. Call or e-mail us today for a free consultation.

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