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A reconsideration, the second step, is an appeal (within the 60 day period) to the initial decision. Here, the social security office requests Consultative Exams (physician visits either by approved physicians or with your pcp or staff) and requests a more in depth review of your medical history. This can also take several months to a year or so. During this review period, the case worker, a mental health specialist and a physical health specialist will review your claim and make a decision. Of this, around 80% from the initial 2/3s get denied, regardless of diagnosis.

A request for hearing is the third step of the application process. This is where we go to court and appeal to a judge to make a decision. This is where most cases are won. During this process, all the previous requested records are updated, any new medical information is added, and we make a formal request to the judge and his staff to review over the case. It can take 60 days or more to schedule a hearing. After the hearing, it can take a few months or more to have a decision made.

The process takes a long time due to several factors. Medical records requests are often delayed due to the cooperation of each individual facility. Many facilities have a delay in turnaround periods, which they process the records requests. It also depends on the individual case workers and physicians who review the cases on staff at the disability/social security offices.