In Florida, the Social Security Administration denies approximately 73% of initial benefit applications. Even worse, the first level of appeal known as the Request for Reconsideration is denied about 90% of the time. Appealing to an Administrative Law Judge, which is generally the second appeal, is statistically a much more successful step in the Social Security claim process, as it is when most disability applicants are rewarded their benefits. However, obtaining a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge on average, can take upwards of fourteen (14) months. Having a disability lawyer in some cases can speed up this process by ensuring that all necessary documents and information is submitted efficiently and on time. Here are some other interesting statistics to give you a perspective on the SSDI and SSI disability process in Florida, and Tallahassee specifically.
- The average processing time for a disability claim is 460 days
- 47% of disability cases in Tallahassee are approved, 34% are denied, and 20% are dismissed all together.
- Following a hearing, it could take 45 to 90 days to receive a decision on a disability case.
- There are currently 4279 cases pending in Tallahassee.
- 2852 dispositions are scheduled in Tallahassee.
- 75% of hearings are done in person, 25% of hearings are done via video.
If you believe you qualify for Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income based on a disability and your claim has been denied, or you simply need assistance with your application, please contact Tallahassee Social Security Attorney Matt Liebenhaut. These powerful statistics on the time-line of this process can be discouraging, but a Social Security Attorney may improve your chances of receiving your disability benefits. Our office serves Tallahassee and the surrounding areas of North Florida and South Georgia.
By: Matt Liebenhaut