Workers applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are often navigating challenging financial circumstances. It may have been months since they last worked. They may have mounting medical expenses to address and no prospects for future income.
Generally speaking, only those with medical challenges that leave them completely unable to work qualify for SSDI benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews every application carefully to determine if people are eligible for benefits. Many people have to appeal to get the benefits they require.
How long can those struggling financially expect the appeals process to take?
Each appeal is different
There are multiple different stages of appeals available, and some of them lead to a faster resolution than others. Reconsideration is an internal process within the SSA. Applicants can potentially secure approval through a reconsideration in a matter of weeks in some cases.
If reconsideration isn’t successful, then the next step is an appeals hearing in front of an administrative law judge. As of August 2025, the SSA office in Indianapolis reported a six-month average wait time for SSDI appeals hearings.
If that process isn’t successful, then the applicant may need to consider requesting a review from the Appeals Council or initiating legal action in federal district courts. The latter two stages of appeal can take months, if not longer than a year, to complete.
The good news for SSDI applicants facing a lengthy appeals process is that approval could lead to backdated benefits. They can receive payment for the benefits they should have received with prompt approval.
Working with a lawyer when preparing for an SSDI appeal can potentially help expedite the process. While appealing can be a lengthy process, it may lead to an applicant getting the benefits they require and deserve.