1. The Average Wait Time for an SSDI Hearing in New York

In New York, the average wait time to get an SSDI hearing after filing an appeal is typically 8 to 14 months, depending on the workload of your local Office of Hearings Operations (OHO).

Factors that can influence the wait include:

• The number of pending cases at your hearing office
• The availability of Administrative Law Judges (ALJs)
• Whether you submit all required medical evidence on time

While the wait can be lengthy, properly preparing your case and keeping your information updated may help prevent additional delays.

2. What Happens Before the Hearing

After your initial SSDI application and reconsideration are denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.

Before the hearing, you’ll receive a notice of hearing at least 75 days in advance. This notice will include:

• The date, time, and location (in-person, video, or phone hearing)
• Information about your right to representation
• A summary of issues to be discussed

During this waiting period, it’s crucial to continue updating your medical records. If your condition worsens or you receive new treatments, submit those updates to the SSA as soon as possible.

3. What Happens During the Hearing

The SSDI hearing itself usually lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, though it may be shorter or longer depending on your case.

At the hearing, you can expect:

• The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) to ask questions about your condition, work history, and daily activities.
• Medical or vocational experts may testify about your ability to work.
• You or your representative will have the chance to explain how your disability prevents you from working.

The hearing is not formal like a courtroom trial — it’s a private, fact-finding meeting to help the judge understand your case better.

4. After the Hearing: Waiting for a Decision

Once your hearing is complete, the ALJ will review your case, medical records, and testimony before making a decision.

The average decision wait time after a hearing in New York is 2 to 3 months, though it can sometimes take longer if additional information is needed.

You will receive a written decision by mail, explaining whether your claim was approved or denied and the reasons behind the decision.

5. How to Check the Status of Your Hearing or Decision

You can monitor your SSDI hearing status by:

• Logging into your My Social Security account on ssa.gov
• Calling the SSA Hearing Office directly
• Speaking with your representative or attorney for updates

Regularly checking helps ensure you don’t miss any important notices or document requests.

6. What to Do If You’re Still Waiting

If your hearing has been delayed for several months, you can contact the Office of Hearings Operations or ask your representative to follow up. Sometimes, cases can be expedited if you’re facing severe financial hardship, homelessness, or terminal illness.

You can submit a dire need request explaining your situation — though approval for expedited review is not guaranteed, it may help shorten your wait time.