Q: Hello, I applied for disability and now it has been 11 months and I haven’t heard anything back from the state.
Do I need a lawyer and how much will it cost?
A: Long waits are normal in this process, but it's always ok to call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 and ask for an update. It is normal to be denied and then have to appeal a couple of times before you get a hearing. Talking to an attorney is a great idea, as they will discuss your health issues and give you a realistic idea of your chances of eventually winning a claim. They will do this for free, and they get paid when you win out of the funds owed to you by SSA.
1 user found this answer helpful
A:
Hi, it is not unusual to wait this long. The pandemic has certainly slowed down the process. I would advise calling your local field office and inquiring.
Scott Bocchio, Esq.
Legal Rights Advocates
855-254-7841
A:
Your 11 month wait for a disability decision from Social Security is about what I have been experiencing with my clients' cases since COVID. You can either call Social Security and ask about the status of your case or you can go to My Social Security and check for updates online.
I agree that it would be a good idea to consult with a disability lawyer about your case. Most offer a free initial consultation. You can decide if you want to hire a disability lawyer after your consultation and discussion of your case issues. Generally, disability lawyers charge a contingency fee of 25 percent of your back benefits or $6,000.00 whichever is less and they only get paid if you win your case and are allowed disability benefits.
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