Initial Application Processing Time

After you submit your SSDI application to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the initial decision typically takes 3 to 6 months, though times can vary depending on:

• The completeness and accuracy of your application and medical evidence
• The workload and staffing level at Kentucky’s Disability Determination Services office
• Whether a consultative exam is required

Many applicants receive a denial on the initial application, but the time spent waiting still counts toward future back pay eligibility.

Reconsideration Stage (If Denied)

If your application is denied—and many are—the next step is to file for Reconsideration, which initiates a fresh review of your claim.

• This process typically takes 2 to 4 additional months, depending on how quickly the SSA receives and evaluates any new documents or medical records
• Because reconsideration still uses administrative review, only a small percentage of people are approved at this stage

If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.

ALJ Hearing – Administrative Law Judge (If Appealed)

When you appeal to the hearing level, you request a review before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).

• In Kentucky, the expected wait time for a hearing can range from 6 to 12 months, sometimes more depending on the location
• After your hearing, you can expect a written decision within 2 to 3 months

Hearing delays are often due to backlog in regional hearing offices and complexity of the case.

Further Appeals (Appeals Council and Federal Court)

If the ALJ denies your claim, you can appeal to the SSA Appeals Council, and if necessary, to federal court.

• Appeals Council review can take 8 to 12 months or longer, and reviews are infrequent
• Federal district court cases may take 12 to 18 months or more, and require legal representation

Because these steps are complex and time-consuming, many applicants who reach this stage have been waiting more than 2 years already.

Overall Timeline Summary

Here’s a rough estimate of what to expect at each stage:

• Initial Decision: ~3–6 months
• If denied → Reconsideration: +2–4 months
• If denied → Hearing with ALJ: +6–12 months + 2–3 months for a decision
• If denied → Appeals Council: +8–12 months or more
• If needed → Federal Court: +12–18 months

Depending on how far your case goes, total time can range from 6 months to several years.

What Can Delay Your SSDI Claim in Kentucky?

Several factors can extend the process:

• Incomplete or missing documentation
• Delays in obtaining medical records or consultative exam reports
• High case volume at state or hearing offices
• Requests for additional information or clarification
• Participation in expedited programs like Compassionate Allowances can speed up processing when applicable

How to Help Your Claim Move Faster

You can proactively manage your case:



• Provide complete medical records and detailed work history upfront
• Submit the most recent test results and doctor statements
• Respond quickly to SSA requests or notices
• Sign up for a My Social Security account to monitor your status
• Ask if your condition qualifies for expedited processing programs