Waiting for a Social Security Disability Appeal

If you’ve applied for Social Security Disability benefits, there’s a good chance your claim was denied. In fact, the Social Security Administration reports as many as 65 percent of initial claims are not approved.

There’s no need to fret if this is the case though. You have an opportunity to file a Social Security Disability appeal of the decision at several different levels; however, it’s important to know this can be a time consuming process. Data shows the wait time for a Social Security Disability hearing can be as long as a year and a half.

The Social Security Administration is working to address this issue by holding more hearings via video conferencing. The applicant simply logs in online and a hearing can be streamed between the applicant’s computer and the judge. This prevents hearings from being delayed due to problems such as transportation issues or weather.

Video conferencing is gaining popularity as well, with records from many offices showing a significantly higher number of hearings be held via this technologically advanced method as opposed to hearings that are held in person. The SSA hopes that as many as 30 percent of all appeal hearings will be held via video conferencing in the coming year.

With so much riding on the decision that is reached in each Social Security Disability hearing, having legal representation by your side during this process can be beneficial. That’s why the Social Security Disability attorneys with Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin are here to help you better understand your rights if your claim for benefits has been denied. We are available to speak with you anytime regarding your case by calling (800) 477-7315.