"How long does the process take after I apply?" Do you know how many times a day I get THAT question??  Unfortunately, my answer to it is not really one that I like sharing to prospects or clients. I usually tell them that the process can take anywhere from two months to three years depending on the circumstances.  Unfortunately, that takes the wind out of alot of people's sails. The sad truth of today's situation is despite the economy, the new administration, or any other external factor, the Social Security process is still a lengthy process.    I've provided a few different posts previously to help you cut the time off of the process.  However, the simple fact remains that it IS a lengthy process. The next hardest question I get is "Is there anything that can be done to make it move faster?" This question falls heavy on my heart because invariably most people don't appreciate the fact that they are one of thousands of people who are trying to do the same thing.   They are sending in their bills, or eviction notice, or foreclosure notices.  They are living with family or friends or even homeless.   However, if SSA doesn't have everything that they need, they can't, in good faith, make an informed and educated decision regarding your claim. I've had two claims in the last year that moved REALLLY fast and both of those persons had terminal cancer (one applied in March, was approved in March, and passed away later that year). "Do I have to be dying in order to get disability benefits?"  That's a cold statement but it's hard to explain to people who are struggling that they are one of MANY persons who are in the same boat as they are.  As such, it's tough to get them to understand that they are NOT the only person who is trying to avoid foreclosure, or is trying to avoid eviction, or is trying to keep the lights from being disconnected. The simple fact of the matter is this, the moment you are put in the position to apply for disability benefits, your world has INSTANTLY been changed.  Unfortunately, despite how crucial your world may be, you still have to go through the process in order to get to the desired outcome.  As such, no matter how HARD it is, you still have to wait.