How long to get SSDI decision in North Carolina?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 08/14/2025
The time it takes to receive a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) decision in North Carolina can vary widely depending on factors like the complexity of your case, the amount of evidence submitted, and whether you need to go through appeals. While some applicants may hear back within a few months, others may wait over a year—especially if the case reaches the hearing stage.
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Typical SSDI Decision Timeline in North Carolina
1. Initial Application Stage
- Average time: 4 to 6 months.
- During this stage, the Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your work history, medical evidence, and eligibility criteria.
- Many applicants receive denials at this stage, often due to insufficient medical proof.
2. Reconsideration Stage
- Average time: 2 to 4 months.
- If your initial application is denied, you can file for reconsideration.
- A different examiner reviews your case, but approval rates at this stage are still relatively low.
3. Hearing Stage
- Average wait: 9 to 12 months from the date you request a hearing.
- The delay is due to scheduling with the Office of Hearings Operations (OHO), as North Carolina hearing offices often have backlogs.
4. Appeals Council & Federal Court
- If denied at the hearing, appeals can take many more months—or even over a year—depending on the complexity of the case.
Factors That Can Affect Your Timeline
- Completeness of your application: Missing information or incomplete medical records can cause delays.
- Medical evidence complexity: If your condition is hard to diagnose, extra evaluations may be required.
- SSA workload: Backlogs at local offices can extend wait times.
- Level of appeal: Higher appeal levels usually mean longer waits.
How to Potentially Speed Up Your SSDI Decision
- Submit complete medical evidence from the start.
- Respond quickly to SSA requests for additional documents or exams.
- Consider Compassionate Allowances (CAL) if you have a severe condition on the SSA’s fast-track list.
- Request a Dire Need flag if you are facing eviction, foreclosure, or lack of access to medical care.
Special Fast-Track Situations
Certain applicants in North Carolina may qualify for expedited review:
- Terminal illness cases (TERI).
- Severe conditions listed under Compassionate Allowances.
- Veterans with 100% permanent and total disability ratings from the VA.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Hogan Smith helps applicants reduce delays and improve their chances of quick approval by:
- Organizing your medical evidence so SSA doesn’t have to request more records.
- Communicating with your doctors to ensure the right documentation is sent.
- Monitoring your case to follow up with SSA and prevent unnecessary delays.
- Filing appeals promptly to keep your claim moving.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you are waiting for an SSDI decision in North Carolina and want to avoid unnecessary delays, Hogan Smith can guide you through each stage of the process. They’ll help ensure your claim is complete and as strong as possible before it reaches the SSA’s desk. Call today for a free consultation and take the first step toward getting the benefits you need.
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