Social Security

The Social Security Administration is responsible for numerous important programs. Many constituents contact me each month with concerns about their retirement, Medicare, and applications for disability benefits. Some of the most frequent questions my office receives about this agency include:

• How long does it take to process Social Security Disability claims?
• What can the Congressman do to help with my Disability claim?
• How can I get information about my Social Security retirement benefits?
• What is the official Social Security website?

How long does it take to process Social Security Disability claims?

• An application for Social Security Disability can take from 6 weeks to several years to handle.
  • Click here to find detailed information about this process.
  • Click here to find your local Social Security office.
• The following times are estimates but represent what people have experienced over the past few years.
  • Initial Processing Time – 6 to 8 weeks
    • Some cases are approved in this first step. If your case is denied at this level, you are encouraged to apply for Reconsideration.
  • Reconsideration – 6 to 8 weeks
    • Similar to Initial processing, this step is conducted through paperwork. Should your claim be denied at this level, you are encouraged to apply for an Administration Law Judge.
  • Hearings and Appeals – 24 to 36 months
    • Your claim will be heard by an Administrative Law Judge at this level. It generally takes 9 to 12 months to get a hearing, and may take a few months longer to get a decision. It is recommended that you get an attorney to help represent you during the hearing. Should your claim be denied at this level, you can appeal the case to the Appeals Council.
  • Appeals Council – 24 to 36 months
    • If the Appeals Council does not approve your claim, the only remaining option is to file a lawsuit if you wish to continue your claim.

What can the Congressman do to help with my Disability claim?

• While I am always happy to assist constituents with a disability claim, I am unable to act as a “representative” on an individual’s disability paperwork. I may request Social Security officials to “flag” a particular case and to provide me with updates throughout the process. This communication can help an individual to better understand what is happening with their case, but I would ultimately recommend getting an attorney to represent you and your case.
• After you file the paperwork for disability benefits with your local Social Security office, I would willingly follow your claim’s progress. Should you like my help, please print the following Authorization Form.

How can I get information about my Social Security retirement benefits?

• Your local Social Security office will be able to assist you with this issue.

What is the official Social Security website?

• Click here for the Social Security Website

Other questions?

• If you have questions or comments about any issue involving the Social Security Administration, please call my office in Cherry Hill, NJ.