Initial Application: 3 to 6 Months

Your SSDI application can be submitted online, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. After submission, the South Carolina Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews your case, including your medical records and work history. This initial decision usually takes about 3 to 6 months, but delays may occur depending on the complexity of your case and how quickly your medical providers respond.

Reconsideration: 2 to 4 Months

If your initial claim is denied, you can request a reconsideration within 60 days. This is a full review by a different evaluator. The reconsideration process generally takes around 2 to 4 months in South Carolina.

Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): 9 to 18 Months

If your claim is denied again, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. Due to a backlog, the wait time for a hearing in South Carolina often ranges from 9 to 18 months. After your hearing, the judge usually issues a decision within 2 to 3 months.

Appeals Council and Federal Court: Additional Time

If the ALJ denies your claim, you may appeal to the Appeals Council, which can take 6 months to over a year to decide. If still denied, you can take your case to federal court, where the process may last 1 to 2 years or longer.

Overall Timeline

From start to finish, your SSDI claim in South Carolina could take anywhere from a few months up to several years, depending on whether you need to appeal and how long each stage takes.