How long does the process take for Social Security to either approve or deny my request for Disability benefits?
The process to obtain benefits can take as little as 3-4 months to more than 24 months to complete. The first (initial) application and review stage takes about 3-4 months. More than sixty percent 60% (and some have estimated as high as 79%) of the initial applications for disability are denied. You have 60 days to appeal after denial. In many states (including Arizona) there is a reconsideration stage. After that decision, you will have another 60 days in which to appeal. If required, the hearing stage is the most important. This is where you meet the Administrative Law Judge and present your evidence in person. If you are denied benefits by the Administrative Law Judge at a hearing, you will have another 60 days to appeal to the Appeals Council. If the Appeals Court rules against you, you would have the right to file in federal court. However, if you hire Hallinan Law Firm to assist you, we will make every effort to present Social Security with sufficient information to facilitate a
