How Long Can You Expect to Wait for a Hearing, a Decision, and Benefits?
The average wait time for a hearing is around 15 and one-half months, but the time varies. Some people receive hearings quicker, while others may wait longer. The judge will occasionally issue a bench ruling at the hearing. If your judge does not, you should hear something about two to three months afterwards. For favorable rulings, you will start receiving current benefits payments about a month following the decision date and your Social Security back-pay may take up to six months beyond that. Unfortunately, your attorney is unable to speed up this process, but they will work hard not to prolong it.
How Will You Be Notified about Your Hearing Date?
Normally, the first person who will learn about the date of your disability hearing will be your attorney. The hearing judge’s assistant should call your attorney when scheduling your hearing to make certain it fits on your attorney’s calendar. Your attorney will then send you a letter informing you of the hearing date. You will then receive a Notice of Hearing from the judge who will be hearing your case.
What If You Receive a Notice from the Judge First?
If you receive a notice but have not received a letter from your lawyer, it is important you call your lawyer immediately. The judge’s assistant may have forgotten to call them.
Contact a Social Security Disability Attorney in Augusta
When you apply for Social Security disability benefits, you are more likely to secure a favorable result if you get help with the process. To schedule a consultation with a Social Security disability attorney in Augusta, call us today.