Last Updated on December 8, 2022 by Deborah L. Hardin
With more applications, more denials and appeals, fewer SSA employees, new SSA employees who are not properly trained, and many still working remotely…The situation is complicated.
The number of disability claims jumped almost 60% compared to before the pandemic. Those who were denied and appealed rose by 75%. It can take more than 200 days just to receive a decision on an application.
Keep in mind that these are applications for DISABILITY benefits. These folks cannot work and usually have no income. While we understand why these delays are happening, they are disastrous and unacceptable for the individual claimants being affected.
BE PERSISTENT: What can be done about it? Advocate for yourself! As my grandmother used to say, “It is the squeaky wheel that gets the grease.”
Follow up with SSA OFTEN. Make a note of who you spoke with, when you called, and what you were told. Make sure SSA knows about your medical treatment. Make sure they are ordering your medical records. Ask if there is anything they still need before they can make a decision. Keep calling. Keep asking. Don’t let your case fall through the cracks.
GET HELP: What if you aren’t up to the full-time job of trying to keep SSA on track? Then, it’s time to get some help. Find an attorney representative who will go to bat for you. In our office, someone is on the phone with SSA weekly, making sure that they don’t forget about our clients.
BE KIND: Just remember that SSA employees are overworked, often new and undertrained, and subjected to impatient and angry claimants all day long. They really are doing their best, so, please be kind.
Social Security is trying to adapt to all of these changes, but these things take time and this administration is not known for efficiency.
MORE INFO: For more info, read this Washington Post article: Social Security offices critical to disability benefits hit breaking point.
Contact us for help with your SSDI or SSI appeal or hearing:
The Hardin Law Firm, PLC
- Phone: 501-247-1830
- Email: info@HardinDisability.com
- Get Started: Case Evaluation & Intake Form
Our Disability Team is ready to answer your questions.
SERVING: Arkansas and surrounding areas.
DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this website is intended to convey general information. It should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. It is not an offer to represent you, nor is it intended to create an attorney-client relationship.
