How Long Does It Take For an SSI Appeal?
If your application for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits was denied, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. Many people receive an initial denial, only to be approved later through the appeals process. But one of the most common questions we hear from clients is: How long does it take for an SSI appeal?
Unfortunately, the answer isn’t simple. The timeline for an SSI appeal depends on many factors, including the stage of appeal you’re in, the backlog at your local office, and whether further evidence or review is needed. Below, we break down the typical timelines and what you can expect along the way.
Understanding the SSI Appeals Process
Before diving into how long the process takes, it’s important to understand the stages of an SSI appeal. After a denial, there are four levels of appeal:
- Reconsideration
- Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
- Appeals Council Review
- Federal Court Review
Each of these stages has its own expected timeline and procedures, and not every case will go through all four.
1. Reconsideration: 2 to 6 Months
The first step in appealing an SSI denial is called Reconsideration. This involves a complete review of your claim by someone who wasn’t involved in the original decision.
How long it takes:
Reconsideration typically takes 2 to 6 months, but this can vary depending on the backlog in your state.
What happens:
You can submit new medical evidence or documents during this stage. However, only a small percentage of cases are approved at this level, so it’s important to prepare for the possibility of moving forward to a hearing.
2. Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge: 6 Months to 2 Years
If Reconsideration doesn’t result in approval, the next step is requesting a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is often the most important and time-consuming part of the SSI appeal process.
How long it takes:
After you request a hearing, it can take 6 months to 2 years to get a court date, depending on your location and the current backlog. Major cities often have longer wait times.
What happens:
At the hearing, you’ll appear before a judge (either in person or via video) and may be asked questions about your medical condition, work history, and ability to function. Medical and vocational experts may also testify. Many people are approved at this stage if they have strong evidence and a well-prepared case.
3. Appeals Council Review: 6 Months to Over a Year
If the judge denies your claim, you can request a review by the Appeals Council. This body reviews the ALJ’s decision to see if a legal or procedural error occurred.
How long it takes:
The Appeals Council process can take anywhere from 6 months to over a year, and in some cases even longer. Many claims are denied at this level, but the Council may send your case back for a second hearing if they find issues with how your hearing was handled.
What happens:
You don’t need to appear in person. The Council reviews your case documents and either upholds the denial, reverses it, or remands it for further proceedings.
4. Federal Court Review: 12 to 24+ Months
After the Appeals Council, your last option is to file a lawsuit in federal district court. This is a complex legal process, which makes turning to an experienced SSI attorney all the more important.
How long it takes:
A federal appeal can take 12 to 24 months or longer, depending on the court’s docket and the complexity of the case.
What happens:
Your attorney will file a written brief explaining why the SSA’s decision was wrong based on the law. The court may affirm the decision, reverse it, or send it back for a new hearing.
Why SSI Appeals Take So Long
Several factors contribute to delays in SSI appeals, including:
- High volume of cases at each level
- Limited number of judges and staff
- Time needed to gather medical evidence and documentation
- Case complexity and the need for expert testimony
While it can be frustrating, it’s important to stay persistent. Many deserving applicants eventually win their case on appeal. A denial is not the end—it’s just another step in the process.
Get Help Navigating the Appeals Process
Facing the SSI appeals process on your own can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with a health condition and financial stress. That’s where we come in.
At Leventhal Sutton & Gornstein, we’ve helped thousands of clients successfully appeal denied SSI claims. With nearly a century of combined experience, we understand how to build strong cases and advocate for the benefits you deserve—at every stage of appeal.
If you’re wondering how long it takes for an SSI appeal, the better question might be: how can I make this process smoother and more successful? The answer starts with getting the right legal team on your side.
Request a free case evaluation today. There’s no fee unless we successfully secure benefits for you.