Initial Application Process

The first step in applying for Social Security Disability benefits in New Jersey is completing the application. You can apply online at www.ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office.

• Processing Time: Once your application is submitted, the Social Security Administration (SSA) typically takes 3 to 5 months to make an initial decision. This time frame may vary depending on the complexity of your case, the amount of medical evidence provided, and the SSA’s workload at the time.
• Factors Affecting Processing Time: Your application will be reviewed by a Disability Determination Services (DDS) examiner who will gather medical records, review your work history, and evaluate whether your disability meets SSA’s criteria. The process may take longer if more information is needed from your doctors or other sources.

Request for Reconsideration (If Denied)

If your initial claim is denied, you have the right to request reconsideration, which is the first level of appeal. During this phase, another examiner will review your case.

• Processing Time: The reconsideration process generally takes 3 to 4 months. However, this can vary depending on the specific details of your case and whether additional information or evidence is required.
• Success Rate: It’s important to note that most Social Security Disability claims are denied at the initial stage. However, requesting reconsideration is a necessary step if you plan to continue with the appeal process.

Request a Hearing (If Reconsideration Is Denied)

If your claim is denied at the reconsideration stage, the next step is to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is a critical phase in the process, where you’ll have the opportunity to present your case in person.

• Processing Time: The time it takes to get a hearing in New Jersey can be longer than other parts of the process. Currently, it can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months to schedule and receive a hearing with an ALJ. This delay is often due to a high volume of cases and the limited availability of ALJs.
• Factors Affecting Hearing Delays: The wait time can be influenced by factors such as your case’s complexity, the backlog of hearings in your local office, and whether you need additional time to submit further evidence or hire a representative.

Post-Hearing Decision

After your hearing, the ALJ will review the evidence and make a decision. In some cases, the ALJ may issue a decision on the spot, but typically it can take a few weeks to a few months for the ALJ to provide a written decision.

• Processing Time: The decision can take anywhere from 30 to 90 days after the hearing. This timeline depends on the complexity of your case and the ALJ's caseload.

Further Appeals (If Denied After Hearing)

If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review from the Appeals Council. The Appeals Council will review your case and determine if the ALJ made any errors in their decision. If they agree with the ALJ, your case will be denied. If they disagree, they may send your case back for further review.

• Processing Time: The Appeals Council typically takes 6 to 12 months to make a decision.

If you still disagree with the outcome after the Appeals Council’s decision, your final option is to file a lawsuit in federal court, which could add several more months or even years to the process.

Average Time Frame for the Entire Process

In total, the entire process from initial application to a final decision can take a long time. On average:

• Initial Application: 3 to 5 months
• Reconsideration (if denied): 3 to 4 months
• Hearing (if denied at reconsideration): 12 to 18 months
• Post-Hearing Decision: 30 to 90 days
• Appeals Council (if denied at hearing): 6 to 12 months

If your claim is denied and you have to go through multiple levels of appeal, it can take 2 to 3 years to get a final decision. The process can be even longer if you take your case to federal court.