1. Initial Application Decision

After you submit your SSDI application in Nevada, it typically takes three to six months to receive an initial decision. During this time, the Social Security Administration (SSA) and Nevada’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) review your medical records, work history, and submitted forms to decide if you qualify.

2. Reconsideration Process

If your initial application is denied, you can request reconsideration within 60 days. The reconsideration stage involves a fresh review of your case by different DDS staff members. This process usually takes an additional two to four months before you receive a new decision.

3. Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

If your reconsideration is denied, the next step is requesting a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is often the longest wait in the SSDI process. In Nevada, it typically takes nine to fourteen months to get a hearing date due to backlogs in the hearing offices, especially in larger cities like Las Vegas or Reno.

After your hearing, the ALJ usually takes two to six months to issue a written decision and for SSA to process the outcome.

4. Overall Timeline Summary

If your claim is approved at the initial stage, the entire process may take around three to six months. However, if your case requires reconsideration and a hearing, the total timeline could extend to eighteen to twenty-four months or more, depending on backlogs and processing times at each stage.

5. Factors Affecting Approval Times

Several factors influence how long your SSDI approval takes, including:

• Completeness of your application and medical documentation
• Whether consultative exams are required by DDS
• Responsiveness to SSA’s requests for additional information
• The backlog at your local SSA office or hearing office

6. Tips to Avoid Delays

To help ensure your claim moves forward as quickly as possible:

• Submit a complete and detailed application from the start
• Provide strong medical evidence and updated records
• Respond promptly to any SSA requests for information
• Follow your treatment plan consistently to maintain up-to-date medical records
• Consider working with a disability attorney or representative to strengthen your application and appeals