The Road to Getting Social Security Disability Benefits
If you can't work because of a long-term or permanent disability or health condition, you can get help from the government. This help is called "disability benefits." Disability benefits include Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
The journey to getting disability benefits from the government can take years. You might hear "no" a few times, but don't stop trying! If approved, you can get back benefits for the months or years you waited.
If you get stuck along the way, call a Social Security disability attorney for help. If you can't find a lawyer, you can get free legal information by calling Oregon's Public Benefits Hotline at 1-800-520-5292.
Initial application
Wait for a decision
After applying, it can take many months to hear back. Most people wait about seven months. Social Security will send you a letter when they decide.
It's normal for Social Security to deny your claim. This happens to a lot of people. Don't give up and keep going through the appeals process. About 50 percent of people get approved for disability benefits after going through the appeals process.
Request for Reconsideration (first appeal)
Wait for a reconsideration decision
After you ask Social Security to reconsider their decision, you’ll have to wait some more. Most people wait around six months for a reconsideration decision.
While you wait, keep going to your medical appointments. It's also important to update Social Security if there are changes in your contact information or health.
You’ll get a decision from Social Security by mail. This decision is called a “reconsideration decision.” It’s normal to be told “no” again. This happens to a lot of people. Don’t give up! Keep going through the process because you may be told “yes” at a later step.
Hearing with a judge (second appeal)
Wait for your hearing date
You'll get a notice in the mail with the date, time, and other details about your hearing. Your hearing will be by phone or video. It will be about an hour long.
In Oregon, you can expect to wait between nine and 18 months (about one and a half years) from the date you ask for a hearing until the date you have a hearing.
Wait again
There's more waiting after your hearing. The judge will take some time to decide and send you a decision in the mail.