1. Initial Application Decision

After you submit your SSDI application:

• The Social Security Administration (SSA) first conducts a technical review to confirm you have enough work credits and meet non-medical eligibility rules.
• Your claim is then sent to Disability Determination Services (DDS) in Indiana for a medical review. Disability examiners and consulting doctors evaluate your medical records, work history, and limitations.

Average processing time for an initial decision in Indiana: Approximately 3 to 6 months

However, this can vary based on:

• How quickly your doctors provide medical records
• Whether SSA requests a Consultative Examination (CE) for additional evaluation
• The current caseload and staffing levels at Indiana DDS

2. Reconsideration Stage (First Appeal)

If your initial application is denied, you can file a Request for Reconsideration within 60 days:

• A different examiner at DDS reviews your case and any new evidence submitted.
• No hearing is held at this stage.

Average processing time for reconsideration in Indiana: Typically 2 to 4 months

3. Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

If reconsideration is also denied, you can request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ):

• This is your best opportunity to present your case in person or via video, submit additional medical evidence, and testify about your limitations.
• Your attorney or representative can question medical and vocational experts to support your claim.

Average wait time for an ALJ hearing decision in Indiana: Ranges from 9 to 14 months, depending on the hearing office’s backlog and scheduling availability.

4. Appeals Council Review

If you disagree with the ALJ decision, you can request an Appeals Council review:

• They review whether the ALJ made a legal or procedural error.
• The council may deny the review, remand your case back to the ALJ for a new hearing, or rarely, approve your claim directly.

Average processing time for Appeals Council review: Typically 6 months to over a year.

5. Federal Court Review

If the Appeals Council denies your request or upholds the ALJ denial, you can file a lawsuit in Federal District Court:

• This is a formal legal process and timelines vary significantly based on court schedules and case complexity.

6. Factors That Affect Your SSDI Approval Timeline

Your approval timeline may be longer or shorter based on:

• Completeness of your application: Missing medical records or work history details can delay decisions.
• Responsiveness of your doctors: Delays in providing records can slow your claim.
• Consultative Exams: If SSA requests a CE, scheduling and reporting results adds time.
• DDS and ALJ caseloads: Backlogs fluctuate throughout the year.