What Are the SSDI Approval Levels?
So, you suffer from a disability and want to apply for benefits. You’re on the right track – but what exactly is the approval rate for social security benefits? What are the SSDI approval levels, and how can you make sure you’re taking the correct steps? Our
attorneys from SSDA USA are here to help.
The Approval Process
SSDI approval levels depend on a few variables, one of which is the stage at which the application is pending. For the initial application stage, a decision regarding SSDI benefits is determined by Disability Determination Services (DDS) offices in your state. About one-third (33%) of people see approval for SSDI at the initial application stage.
However, there are still steps you can take if you are unsatisfied with the decision. Of those that apply for a reconsideration appeal – known as a “request for reconsideration” – approximately 11% see approval. This may be due to a few factors. One critical factor is that the appeal goes to the same DDS office but to a different examiner. If the new examiner determines there were no errors, you will likely be denied.
If you dislike the decision still, you can always apply for a hearing with an administrative law judge. The approval rate at this stage in the process skyrockets to approximately 58%, the highest approval rate of any stage in the application process. This is especially good considering the fact that about 18% of hearing reviews are dismissed for reasons other than denial. Really, the denial rate at the hearing stage of the process is approximately 24%.
Differences in Conditions
The severity of your condition can affect your approval rate, as well. First, you must make sure you meet Social Security’s definition of disabled. After this, consider the seriousness of your condition. More serious conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, cancer, respiratory disorders, and osteoarthritis, will see a higher approval rate than less serious conditions, such as mood disorders.
Don’t let this deter you from applying, though. Always keep trying. In fact, the SSDI approval levels for many conditions goes up dramatically after a hearing. So persevere and know that your chances of approval only go up with time.
Variations by State
Many people don’t realize that it’s the DDS offices in their state that make the decisions on their applications, not the Social Security Administration itself. Depending on where you live, you may have a higher or lower chance for approval.
While the national average approval rate at the hearing level is 58%, Hawaii has a 78% approval rate, and Alaska has an approximate 18% approval rate. While the same social security rules are in place for every DDS office, at the end of the day, individuals are the ones who interpret and apply the rules. Looser interpretations result in more approvals, whereas stricter interpretations yield fewer approvals.
Have Questions About SSDI Approval Levels?
If you have further questions about your social security benefits, contact SSDA USA right away! Our attorneys are eager to address all your social security concerns. Call us anytime at 602-952-3200. Alternatively, you can contact us online and check out our LiveChat feature. Don’t keep your social security concerns to yourself. Contact Social Security Disability Advocates USA today!
This is attorney advertising. SSDA, LLC is a group of attorneys that pursues claims for Social Security Disability benefits on behalf of its clients against the Social Security Administration. SSDA, LLC is in no way a part of the Social Security Administration. Further, the information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, a representative-client relationship.
