Five stages. One team that knows them all.
The SSDI process from free case review through hearing and back pay can take 6 to 24 months depending on where your case starts. Here's exactly what happens at each stage — what we do, what you do, and what you can expect.
The SSDI process isn’t designed to be easy.
Most initial SSDI applications get denied. Most reconsideration appeals get denied. Most successful cases get approved at the ALJ hearing stage — which can be 12-14 months from when the hearing is requested.
That timeline isn’t a feature of our representation. It’s the SSA system. What changes with proper representation is the quality of medical evidence in your file, the legal framework supporting your case, and the percentage of cases that win.
This page walks through what to expect at each stage — and what we do to move your case toward approval.
Working with Downard means:
- Free case review with no obligation to retain
- One law firm from application through federal appeal
- Direct coordination with your medical providers
- Detailed preparation before every hearing
- Communication you can actually count on
- No fee unless we win your case
From first call to approval.
Not every case goes through every stage. Some are approved at initial application. Others go through reconsideration or hearing. Federal court appeals are rare but possible. Here’s how each stage works.
Free Case Review
It starts with a phone call or web form. We listen to your situation, ask about your medical history and work history, and evaluate whether we believe you have a viable SSDI case. There’s no charge for this step and no obligation to retain us.
What we do:Evaluate your case honestly. If we don’t think it’s strong, we’ll tell you. If it is, we explain what to expect and how we’d handle it.
What you do: Tell us your story. Be honest about your work history, medical conditions, and current symptoms. Ask questions.
Initial Application
Once you retain us, we help file your SSDI application with the Social Security Administration. The application requires extensive information about your medical conditions, treatment history, work history, education, and daily functional limitations.
What we do: Draft the application, gather initial medical evidence, coordinate with your providers for treatment records, and submit everything to SSA.
What you do: Sign authorization forms, provide a complete list of medical providers, and respond to our requests for information.
Reconsideration (if denied)
Most initial applications are denied. If yours is denied, we have 60 days to file a reconsideration appeal. This stage involves another SSA review with additional medical evidence and updated functional information.
What we do: File the reconsideration appeal, gather additional medical evidence, request updated treatment records, and respond to any SSA requests for consultative examinations.
What you do: Keep treating with your doctors. Attend any consultative examinations SSA schedules. Tell us about any new symptoms or treatments.
ALJ Hearing
If reconsideration is denied, we request an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearing. Most successful cases are won here. The hearing is your chance to present medical evidence, testify about your limitations, and have a judge evaluate your case in person.
What we do:Build the medical record, draft a pre-hearing brief, prepare you for testimony, request your treating physician’s functional capacity statement, and represent you at the hearing.
What you do: Prep with us before the hearing. Be honest about your symptoms. Show up on time (most hearings are now by phone or video).
Approval & Benefits
Once approved, SSA calculates your benefit amount and back pay. Back pay can be substantial — covering the period from when you became disabled (subject to a 5-month waiting period and 12-month retroactive limit). Medicare eligibility begins 24 months after your disability onset date.
What we do: Review your back pay calculation, ensure your benefit amount is correct, coordinate with SSA on any administrative issues, and explain your ongoing rights and responsibilities.
What you do: Open the SSA notice. Set up direct deposit. Keep us informed of any return-to-work attempts or changes in your situation.
Three things you can do that help your case.
SSDI cases are won on medical evidence and credible testimony — both of which depend on you. Here’s what matters most.
Keep treating consistently
Regular medical appointments build the record SSA needs. Gaps in treatment hurt cases. If cost is a barrier, talk to us — we can suggest resources.
Stay in touch with us
Tell us about new symptoms, new treatments, new doctors, and any return-to-work attempts. The more we know, the better we can build your case.
Be honest, always
Don't overstate symptoms. Don't understate them either. Credible, consistent testimony wins cases. Exaggeration destroys them.
Ready to start? Let's talk.
Free case review. No obligation. We respond within 2 business hours.