How long does a disability claim take in Pennsylvania?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 06/05/2025
If you’ve applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Pennsylvania, one of the most common questions is: How long will it take to get a decision? The process can be lengthy, but knowing what to expect at each stage can help you plan and stay informed throughout your claim.
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1. Initial Application Decision: 3 to 6 Months
After submitting your initial SSDI or SSI application, you’ll typically wait 3 to 6 months for a decision from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Several factors affect this timeframe, including:
- The complexity of your medical condition
- How quickly your doctors provide medical records
- Whether the SSA requires additional evaluations or exams
- Backlogs at Pennsylvania’s Disability Determination Services (DDS)
During this phase, it’s critical to ensure that all required medical documents are submitted promptly.
2. If Denied: Reconsideration Takes Another 3 to 5 Months
If your initial claim is denied and you file a Request for Reconsideration, expect an additional 3 to 5 months for a new decision. This stage involves a different SSA reviewer re-examining your claim, but it often results in another denial unless you submit new, compelling evidence.
3. Disability Hearing Wait Time: 12 to 18 Months
If reconsideration is denied, the next step is to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Unfortunately, this is usually the longest part of the process.
In Pennsylvania, the wait time for a disability hearing averages between 12 to 18 months, depending on:
- Which SSA hearing office handles your case
- Backlogs and available ALJs
- Whether you opt for an in-person or virtual hearing
Despite the long wait, this is often where applicants have the highest chance of approval.
4. Appeals Council and Federal Court: Several More Months
If the ALJ denies your claim, you can escalate the case to the Appeals Council, which can take 6 months or more to issue a decision. If you go further and file a lawsuit in federal court, it could add a year or more to your case.
5. Tips to Avoid Delays
You can help keep your claim moving by:
- Submitting all required documentation early
- Responding promptly to SSA requests
- Keeping regular medical appointments
- Using the SSA online portal to check your application status
- Contacting your local SSA office if updates are needed
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we understand the urgency of getting your disability benefits. Our experienced team can help you:
- File a complete and accurate initial application
- Avoid common delays by gathering the right documentation
- Communicate with the SSA on your behalf
- Guide you through appeals and represent you at hearings
- Stay on track with deadlines and case updates
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Want to avoid unnecessary delays in your Pennsylvania disability claim? Contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation. We’ll guide you through the process, handle the paperwork, and fight for the benefits you deserve—on time.
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