Race Day Live Government programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are meant to help people who can’t work due to long-term medical conditions.
But depending on where you live, getting approved for these benefits can take a long time. A new study from the public interest law firm Atticus found that SSDI applicants in some states wait almost a year just for a hearing.
What Is SSDI and Who Qualifies?
SSDI provides financial help to people who can’t work due to a disability that is expected to last at least a year or result in death.
Some family members, like spouses and children, may also qualify for benefits based on the applicant’s work history.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews each application, but processing times vary by state.
Long Wait Times for SSDI Hearings
Atticus’ research, published in December 2024, highlights a growing problem in SSDI processing delays. The study found that the average wait time for an SSDI hearing is 7.7 months.
Many applicants struggle financially during this period, as they have no income while waiting for a decision.
“These delays come at a significant cost, with many individuals experiencing financial instability, emotional strain, and disrupted lives,” said Atticus attorney Sarah Aitchison.
States With the Fastest SSDI Processing Times
According to Atticus, some states process SSDI hearings faster than others. The best states for short wait times are:
- Iowa – 6 months
- Kansas – 6 months
- Nebraska – 6 months
- Mississippi – 6.2 months
States With the Longest SSDI Delays
On the other hand, SSDI applicants in these states face the longest waits:
- Colorado – 10 months
- Nevada – 9.5 months
- Washington – 9.3 months
- Connecticut – 9.3 months
Regional Differences in SSDI Wait Times
The study also found that some regions have faster processing times than others.
- Midwest: Shortest average wait time at 6.8 months.
- West: Longest average wait time at 8.8 months.
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Impact of SSDI Delays on Applicants
The Atticus survey, which included 823 SSDI applicants, revealed several major problems caused by these delays:
- Many applicants lost their homes due to eviction or foreclosure.
- Most had to use their savings or borrow money from family and friends to cover expenses.
- About 66% reported mental health struggles while waiting for their hearing.
- 40% of applicants said they would consider moving to another state for a faster approval process.
What Can Applicants Do?
If you’re applying for SSDI, there are steps you can take to speed up the process:
- File as soon as possible – The sooner you submit your application, the better.
- Provide complete medical records – Missing documents can cause delays.
- Consult a disability lawyer – Legal help may improve your chances of getting approved faster.
- Check wait times in your state – If you’re flexible, consider relocating to a state with shorter processing times.
Conclusion
SSDI benefits provide essential financial support to people with disabilities, but long wait times in some states make it difficult for applicants to access their money. While some states process applications faster, others take nearly a year.
If you’re applying for SSDI, understanding the wait times in your state can help you plan ahead and make informed decisions.
Disclaimer- Our team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and maintain its credibility. We are committed to providing honest and reliable content for our readers.
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