Step-by-Step SSDI Appeals Timeline in Arizona

1. Reconsideration – Average Wait: 2 to 4 Months

If your initial SSDI claim is denied, the first level of appeal is called Reconsideration. You must file this request within 60 days of receiving your denial letter.

• The Social Security Administration (SSA) will review your application again, including any new evidence you submit.
• A different examiner—not involved in your original decision—will handle the review.
• You typically receive a decision within 60 to 120 days.

If your reconsideration is also denied, you can move on to the next step.

2. Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing – Average Wait: 6 to 12 Months

If you're denied at reconsideration, you can request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge.

• You must file the hearing request within 60 days of your reconsideration denial.
• After your request, it may take 6 to 12 months to receive a hearing date depending on the backlog in your area.
• You’ll have the opportunity to present your case in person (or virtually), bring witnesses, and submit medical records.
• A decision may take 2 to 3 months after the hearing concludes.

In Arizona, ALJ wait times may vary by hearing office, with some delays being longer depending on staffing and caseloads.

3. Appeals Council Review – Average Wait: 8 to 12 Months

If the judge denies your claim, you can request a review by the SSA Appeals Council.

• You have 60 days from the ALJ’s decision to file this request.
• The Appeals Council may approve your claim, deny your request, or send the case back to the ALJ for another hearing.
• This step often takes 8 months to over a year.

This stage mostly focuses on whether the judge made a legal or procedural error in your hearing.

4. Federal Court – Average Timeline: 12 to 18 Months

If the Appeals Council denies your claim or refuses to review it, your final option is to file a lawsuit in U.S. District Court.

• You must file the lawsuit within 60 days of the Appeals Council decision.
• Federal court cases take longer—often 12 to 18 months or more—and require legal representation.
• The court may reverse the SSA decision, remand the case for another hearing, or uphold the denial.

This is the most complex and time-consuming step, but it’s also your final chance to appeal within the legal system.

Total Timeline for SSDI Appeals in Arizona

Depending on how far your case goes, the total appeals process in Arizona may last anywhere from a few months to several years. Many applicants wait over two years if they go through all appeal levels, especially if delays occur during the hearing stage or due to case backlog.

What You Can Do to Help Your Case Move Forward

• Meet all appeal deadlines—you typically have 60 days to respond at each stage
• Submit updated medical evidence as early as possible
• Follow up with the SSA to check on the status of your appeal
• Hire a disability attorney to help organize your claim and represent you at hearings
• Respond quickly to any requests for documents or forms

The more complete and responsive your claim is, the better chance you have of keeping the process on track.