I just filed for disability. What's the social security approval process?

Once you have completed the application for disability benefits, your case is sent to the Disability Determination Service (DDS)office for your state. Your claim is assigned to an evaluator who may contact you for more information or clarification.  They may also request additional medical records or set up a consultative examination if they do not have enough medical information or conflicting information.

An evaluation team reviews disability claims.  This team consists of a medical or psychological consultant and a lay disability evaluation specialist is responsible for making the disability determination.  The DDS uses a five step process to determine your claim asking these questions; are you working; is your medical condition severe;  is your condition on the list of impairments;  can you do the work you did before; and can you do any other type of work?  It can take three to five months to get a decision.  DDS decisions are subject to appeal.

You should consider contacting an attorney who specializes in disability law and has experience in handling Social Security cases.  He or she could give you more information about filing for disability benefits.

Talk to a Social Security Disability Lawyer for more information regarding your rights and your specific case.