Are SSDI Wait Times So Bad That I Shouldn’t Even Try?

Getting SSDI in Memphis can be a challenging process; and as a result, some people don’t even try.

In fact, our Memphis disability attorneys have heard from some people who get this advice from other lawyers. They say to give up before you’ve even started. And we couldn’t disagree more.

If you qualify for SSDI and need it because of a health problem, you have every right to claim what is yours – and every reason to fight for it. You just need to know what to expect and follow the rules when you apply. And we can help.

The Real SSDI Wait Time Problem

The wait for SSDI is in fact higher than it used to be, but it’s not as bad as some people are saying.

A simple overview: wait times nearly doubled around the same time as Covid. Budget cuts, health problems, layoffs, etc., all combined to lower the staffing at the Social Security Administration, or SSA.

With fewer people working on the caseload, and with far more claims coming in after the many health complications related to the pandemic, the system experienced overload. Wait times appear to have peaked at the height of the pandemic, when the fewest people were available to work at the exact same time claims skyrocketed.

Today, wait times have stabilized at a higher rate than 10 years ago, but they don’t appear to be increasing anymore. And they generally aren’t as bad as they were during the worst of Covid. Each claim is different, but the wait usually requires a few months to a year.

What to Expect if You Need SSDI

If you need SSDI, the wait might be extremely frustrating. But you have every reason to fight for it and be willing to put up with the system. The system isn’t perfect, but it still functions and serves an important purpose, and there’s a lot you can do to improve your chances.

First, you need to be qualified to receive SSDI in the first place. We have a series of posts about what this means and how to make sure you have everything in place for your claim.

Next, you need to follow the steps to a T. Mistakes in the initial application can increase the weight time exponentially. To the best of your ability, you should include all the information necessary to make your case.

The directions aren’t especially clear, so this is extremely hard for the average layperson to do. To help, we published a free report, called “An Honest Guide to Disability.” This report outlines what to include in your initial application and what to expect from the process.

Lastly, you need to persevere. Don’t give up before you’ve even started, and don’t let the wait times get to you. Instead, make sure to communicate quickly and kindly with everyone at the SSA.

And if you were one of the many people who gets denied on your first try, immediately get the help of an attorney for your appeal.

SSDI Is Still Possible and Still Worth It

The SSA denies the majority of SSDI applications on the first try. But after that, you have exactly 60 days to appeal. If you qualify for SSDI and need the benefits, you absolutely should appeal as quickly as possible, and with the help of an attorney.

If you work with us in the appeals process, our attorneys will help you figure out what went wrong on your initial claim. We strengthen your application and represent you at the hearing. Our job is to advocate on your behalf for why you need disability and how much it could change your life.

And we’ve seen incredible results: people’s lives totally changed by receiving the benefits they need. So don’t let the worst parts of the system keep you from getting help.

The process for getting SSDI is unquestionably frustrating at times. But as we know firsthand, it’s also a critical lifeline for millions of people suffering from a disability.

Legal Help with Getting SSDI in Memphis

If you need SSDI, our Memphis SSDI attorneys are here to help. For decades, we’ve assisted the people of Memphis in getting the benefits they need.

Our award-winning team helps you figure out any hole in your initial claim. We bring in additional records, expert testimony, and anything it takes to prove your case. And we represent you with tenacity and dedication, because your future matters to us.

In addition, we don’t get paid anything unless and until we win your case. And even then, it’s limited by law to only a fraction of your past due benefits. You keep everything moving forward.

If you’ve been denied, don’t get discouraged. Let us get to work so you can get the benefits you need as soon as possible.

Remember, you have 60 days to appeal. To get started, just contact us online today or give us a call at 901-327-2100.