How long will it take and what will DDS decide?
The process of the Disability Determination Services (DDS) evaluation can take up to six months, and sometimes longer, before a decision regarding your claim is made. Due to the high rate of denials, an applicant should prepare for a claim to be denied. The DDS denies THE MAJORITY of all claims based upon the initial evaluation. HOWEVER, WITH AN ADVOCATE OR ATTORNEY YOUR CHANCES CAN BE GREATLY INCREASED. Click Here For Free Help.
The DDS will send you a letter regarding their determination. In the case of an approved claim, the letter will indicate the amount of benefits you will receive and the date payments will begin. In the case of a denial the letter will provide an explanation for withholding benefits and provide you with a method of appeal. Once denied, most applicants choose to seek legal representation or an advocacy service due to the increased complexity of the appeal process.
The following chart follows the timeline of the entire claim, denial and appeals process for an individual handling their case without representation until the 2nd appeal stage.
