How long does a disability appeal take with a lawyer?

September 11, 2025

When a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claim is denied, the appeals process can be the difference between receiving essential benefits and facing continued financial hardship. The timeline for a disability appeal depends on several variables, including the stage of appeal, the complexity of the case, and administrative backlogs.

Legal representation from an experienced California disability attorney can help streamline the Social Security disability appeal process, avoid common mistakes, and improve the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

The Disability Appeal Process

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a multi-step appeals process. Each stage has its own timeline, and the total length of time depends on how far a claimant must progress before achieving a favorable decision.

Reconsideration

If an initial application is denied, the first step is to request reconsideration.

Timeline: On average, it takes three to six months to receive a decision.
Factors affecting timing: Case complexity, additional medical evidence needed, and SSA workload.

Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

If reconsideration is denied, the claimant may request a hearing.

Timeline: The wait for a hearing date can range from eight months to over a year, depending on the hearing office’s backlog.
Hearing scheduling factors: Regional SSA caseload, availability of judges, and whether the claimant requests an in-person or video hearing.

Appeals Council Review

If the ALJ issues an unfavorable decision, the next step is to appeal to the SSA’s Social Security Appeals Council.

Timeline: Generally takes six months to one year, sometimes longer.
Possible outcomes: The Appeals Council can affirm the ALJ’s decision, reverse it, or remand the case for a new hearing.

Federal Court Review

If the Appeals Council denies the claim, the claimant may file a lawsuit in federal district court. Federal court litigation can typically take 8 months to 2 years.

How a Lawyer Can Impact the Timeline

While no attorney can make the SSA move faster, a skilled disability lawyer can help reduce unnecessary delays. Some ways this happens include:

Ensuring accurate and complete filings to avoid requests for additional information.
Gathering all relevant medical evidence before submission, so the SSA doesn’t need to pause processing for documentation.
Meeting all deadlines and ensuring appeal requests are filed on time.
Communicating with the SSA to follow up on pending matters and confirm that documentation has been received and logged.

Factors That Affect How Long a Disability Appeal Takes

Case Complexity

Cases involving multiple medical conditions, disputed medical evidence, or unclear work history usually require more time for review.

SSA Workload

Processing times vary by region, depending on how many cases each SSA office is handling.

Availability of Medical Records

Delays in a disability benefits claim resolution can occur if medical providers are slow to release necessary documentation.

Administrative Delays

The SSA has faced increased backlogs due to prior pandemic-related closures and staffing shortages.

Why Having an SSDI Appeal Lawyer May Improve Your Odds

Although a lawyer cannot guarantee a faster outcome or predict an administrative law judge’s decision, representation can prevent procedural mistakes that cause avoidable delays. Lawyers experienced in Social Security Disability law know what evidence the SSA requires, how to structure appeals for maximum clarity, and how to argue for an earlier onset date to potentially increase back pay.

Social Security Disability lawyers can also request an on-the-record decision in certain cases. If approved, this could allow a favorable ruling for social security disability benefits without the need for a disability hearing, potentially cutting months off the process.

Steps a Lawyer Can Take to Help Expedite the Process

Review all SSA communications for accuracy and completeness.
Submit new medical evidence or additional evidence promptly.
Maintain regular contact with SSA staff.
Monitor case status through the SSA’s electronic systems.
Request expedited processing in cases of extreme hardship or terminal illness.

Managing Expectations During the Appeals Process

Even with a lawyer, the Social Security appeals process is rarely fast. Most cases that proceed to a hearing take well over a year to resolve. Claimants should prepare financially and emotionally for this possibility. In the meantime, a lawyer can help identify other potential sources of financial assistance, such as short-term disability benefits, workers’ compensation, or local aid programs.

When an Appeal May Be Expedited

The SSA allows for certain types of cases to be prioritized for further review or a hearing decision:

Compassionate Allowances (CAL) cases for severe medical conditions.
TERI (Terminal Illness) cases for applicants with a life expectancy of under six months.
Dire need cases where lack of income results in inability to obtain food, shelter, or medical care.

An attorney can identify if your case meets these criteria and request through the local Social Security office for expedited handling of your disability claim.

Our Approach to Disability Appeal Cases in California

Proven Strategies for Swift and Favorable Appeal Outcomes

At Pisegna & Zimmerman, Attorneys at Law, we recognize that every day spent waiting for disability benefits can feel overwhelming. Our team uses proven strategies designed to minimize delays and strengthen appeal cases from the very start.

This includes conducting a thorough review of the original application, gathering comprehensive medical evidence, and anticipating potential objections from the Social Security Administration. By addressing weaknesses early, we position clients for a smoother, more favorable outcome.

Customized Legal Support for Unique Appeal Scenarios

No two disability appeals are identical. That’s why we tailor our legal approach to match the challenges and circumstances each client faces. Whether the case involves complex medical records, vocational assessments, or procedural errors, we develop a plan that maximizes the likelihood of approval.

Our attorneys maintain close communication throughout the process, ensuring clients remain informed and confident about the progress of their case. We know how to navigate the system while still fighting relentlessly for the benefits our clients deserve. Ultimately, our goal is to deliver both speed and success in resolving disability appeals.

Get Our California Disability Appeal Lawyers on Your Side

At Pisegna and Zimmerman, LLC, we understand how stressful the disability appeal process can be, particularly when time and financial resources are limited. With more than 60 years of combined experience in Social Security Disability law, we have the skills to help our clients pursue favorable appeal outcomes as far as possible. To schedule your free consultation, call us at (818) 377-2200 or contact us online.