# How long does SSDI approval take?

The SSA states that initial medical review at the state Disability Determination Services (DDS) office is the longest stage of the initial decision. Appeals add further time: Reconsideration typically takes several months, and ALJ hearings currently average around a year of wait.

**Direct answer:** Most initial SSDI decisions take 6 to 8 months, but many claimants must appeal, and the full process — from application through an ALJ hearing — commonly takes 1 to 2 years.

## How long is the initial decision?
Most initial SSDI decisions take 6 to 8 months.

   
## What if I have to appeal?
The full journey through [Reconsideration and an ALJ hearing](/appeals) commonly takes 1 to 2 years total.

   
## Are there faster paths?
Yes — [Compassionate Allowances](/answers/what-is-a-compassionate-allowance) and Quick Disability Determinations can approve severe cases in weeks.

## Sources
- SSA — Apply for Disability Benefits — https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/apply.html
- SSA — The Appeals Process — https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/appeal.html
- SSA — Compassionate Allowances — https://www.ssa.gov/compassionateallowances/

## Related questions
- [What is a Compassionate Allowance?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-is-a-compassionate-allowance)
- [Why was my SSDI denied?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/why-was-my-ssdi-denied)
- [When do SSDI payments start?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/when-do-ssdi-payments-start)
## Topics
- SSDI Application Process — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/application-process
- SSDI Appeals — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/appeals
- Compassionate Allowances — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-is-a-compassionate-allowance

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