How long do I have to wait for a Social Security Disability Hearing?

If after initially applying for Social Security Disability benefits you receive a letter denying your claim, you may appeal the Social Security Administration’s initial determination by timely requesting a “Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge” (ALJ).  Statistically, an individual stands a better chance of having their case approved following a hearing by an ALJ then they do at initial application process.

Unfortunately, there is a lengthy wait time between the time that you request a hearing by an ALJ and the time your hearing actually takes place.  Here is a link to the Social Security Administration’s website documenting the average wait time at each hearing office.

For quick reference, as follows are the current average wait times for the hearing offices in which our clients most frequently appear:

Hearing Office                        Waiting Time

Seven Fields                           20 Months

Buffalo                                   26 Months

Pittsburgh                              21 Months

Cleveland                               15 Months

Johnstown                              20 Months

Again, the wait time identified above is not the wait time between the initial application and the hearing by ALJ, but the wait time between the request for the hearing by ALJ and the actual ALJ hearing.

We recommend consulting with an experienced Social Security Disability attorney prior to filing your initial application.  However, if you have not consulted with an experienced Social Security Disability Attorney prior to filing your initial application, it is vital that you consult with an attorney immediately after receiving the very first letter denying you benefits.  The sooner our office becomes involved in the case, the sooner we can begin strengthening your case and increasing your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.

Our attorneys and staff recognize that our clients’ lives are not placed on hold while they wait for their Social Security Disability hearing.  We understand that bills still have to be paid and medical care must continue to be received.  We realize this long wait time occurs while an individual has significantly reduced or no income. This obviously results in significant financial hardship.

Our office will do everything in its power to move your case through the Social Security Disability appeal process as expeditiously as possible while guiding you through this difficult time. Contact one of our attorneys today for a free consultation.