What’s Going On With Social Security Disability Delays?

Since President Donald Trump took office for his second term, there has been a lot of concern about government programs such as Social Security. Trump has been working with Tesla founder Elon Musk to reduce federal spending through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

Trump has been laying off workers from various government agencies, causing financial stress to the terminated employees as well as headaches to those who rely on benefits from these agencies. Social Security Disability recipients are especially concerned, especially those who are still waiting on a determination. When will they get approved? How much longer do they have to wait for their benefits?

The delays are growing. Right now, close to 300,000 Americans are awaiting decisions on their Social Security disability appeals. The current wait time is appalling, at more than nine months. There were some improvements with these delays in previous years.

In September 2024, pending hearings dropped to below 262,000 — a 30-year low. The numbers have now surged and there is concern that Trump’s layoffs will override these improvements and cause extended delays.

These prolonged wait times are extremely frustrating for applicants. Many of whom rely on Social Security benefits as their primary source of income. This means extended delays can make their financial hardship even worse, increasing the risk of poverty. Many applicants end up losing their homes and cars. To make ends meet, they are often forced to rely on family or even return, causing their medical conditions to worsen.

When a claim is denied, applicants have the right to attend a hearing and appeal. This hearing is a critical step in the appeals process, as it gives claimants an opportunity to present new evidence and clarify information related to their situation.

So with delays on the rise, what happens next? Many Social Security offices were recently closed, raising concerns about more delays. The already lengthy wait times are expected to get even worse, causing additional strain on those in need of timely assistance. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) did say they are not renewing leases for small, remote hearing sites, as most hearings are now held virtually. Roughly one-fifth of these offices held no in-person hearings in 2024, so the impact is expected to be minimal.

Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security Disability benefits are a lifeline for those who are disabled and unable to work. Cutting these programs and creating delays hurts everyone involved. These government departments actually need more, not fewer, employees.

If you are disabled and dealing with delays and denials, you need an advocate on your side. Get the help you need from a White Plains Social Security Disability lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon. We can handle even the most complex claims. See how we can guide you through the process with ease. To schedule a consultation with our office, fill out the online form or call (914) 228-1770.

Source:

newsweek.com/nearly-300k-americans-await-social-security-decision-2036815