SSDI Delays: Best And Worst States
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments are intended to be distributed equitably based on eligibility. However, it appears as though some SSDI recipients have an easier time getting their benefits than others based on location. That’s right — where you live can play a major role in how quickly your application is processed.
According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), SSDI benefits are available to those who physically cannot work because they have a medical condition that’s expected to last at least one year or result in death. Spouses and unmarried children may also be eligible for SSDI benefits based on another person’s work history.
A new study showed that there are differences between the states when it comes to waiting times for SSDI application hearings. Sadly, some applicants are forced to wait close to a year just to get a hearing. These delays cause a lot of hardships, causing people to experience financial issues and emotional strain during an already difficult time in their lives.
Here’s a look at the general timeframe for SSDI claims:
- 30 to 90 days for an initial claim decision
- Up to 60 days for a reconsideration appeal decision
- 12 months or more to get a disability hearing
While SSDI benefits provide a lifeline to eligible Americans, getting this money quickly is not easy at all. According to the study, the average wait time for an SSDI hearing is 7.7 months.
The study surveyed 823 SSDI applicants to better understand the impact of the delays. Its analysis included finding out which states have the shortest and longest waits.
The states with the shortest waiting times to get an SSDI hearing are:
- Iowa: 6 months
- Nebraska: 6 months
- Kansas: 6 months
- Mississippi: 6.2 months
The states with the longest waiting times are:
- Colorado: 10 months
- Nevada: 9.5 months
- Connecticut: 9.3 months
- Washington: 9.3 months
The study also showed that SSDI hearing delays had a major impact on applicants, with many losing their homes while waiting for benefits. Most were forced to borrow money from a savings account or their loved ones to cover expenses. Also, 40% of applicants said they would relocate if it meant their SSDI claim would get processed more quickly.
While New York was not on the list, statistics show that approximately 60% of SSDI claims initiated in New York State are denied. This means you will want to work quickly to get a hearing scheduled. The quicker you can appeal your decision, the better. Having the right legal help is crucial.
Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits
If you need SSDI benefits fast, you won’t get them overnight, but some areas of the United States do have quicker times and fewer delays for scheduling a hearing if you need one.
If you are disabled and looking to get your benefits as quickly as possible, a White Plains Social Security Disability lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon can guide you through the process. We’ll help you get the benefits you are entitled to receive. Schedule a consultation with our office today by calling (914) 228-1770 or filling out the online form.
Source:
msn.com/en-us/money/retirement/need-social-security-disability-benefits-these-are-the-4-best-and-worst-states-for-delays/ar-AA1ys5yQ?apiversion=v2&noservercache=1&domshim=1&renderwebcomponents=1&wcseo=1&batchservertelemetry=1&noservertelemetry=1
