When you’ve taken the step of applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you might expect quick results. But the reality is that the process takes time, and many applicants in Oregon find themselves unsure of what happens next. At Drew L. Johnson, P.C. Attorneys At Law, we help clients through every stage of the disability claims process—so you’re never left wondering what’s going on.
If you’ve already filed your SSDI or SSI application, here’s what you can expect moving forward.
Initial Review by the Social Security Administration (SSA)
After your application is submitted, it goes through a basic eligibility check by the SSA. This first review focuses on non-medical qualifications. For SSDI, that means they check whether you’ve worked long enough and recently enough to qualify for benefits. For SSI, they look at your income and assets to see if you meet the financial need criteria.
Once the SSA verifies that your application meets these basic standards, they send it to Oregon’s Disability Determination Services (DDS), which is located in Salem. DDS handles the next major step: the medical evaluation.
The Medical Review Process
DDS is responsible for gathering the medical evidence needed to decide whether you’re disabled under Social Security’s rules. They request records from your doctors, hospitals, and clinics. In some cases, they’ll also ask for more detailed information—like how your condition affects your ability to work.
If your records aren’t sufficient or if there’s conflicting information, you may be scheduled for a consultative examination (CE). This is a medical exam paid for by the SSA, conducted by an independent doctor. It’s not optional—if you’re asked to attend, it’s crucial to show up. Missing the exam can lead to a denial.
In Oregon, the medical review stage usually takes five or six months, depending on how quickly your providers respond to record requests and whether a CE is needed. Delays can happen if you’re getting care from overburdened medical providers or if you’ve recently changed doctors.
Typical Timelines and What May Affect Them
On average, initial disability decisions in Oregon take about 5 or 6 months, but this timeline can vary. If your medical records are complete and clearly support your claim, things may move faster. If not, it can stretch out even longer.
Other common causes of delay include:
- Incomplete medical histories
- Providers taking weeks or months to respond
- Backlogs at Oregon DDS
- Ongoing staffing shortages
COVID-19 also created long-term delays. While things have improved somewhat, the SSA and DDS are still catching up from years of disrupted workflows and staff turnover.
Common Outcomes After Initial Review
There are two possible outcomes at this stage: approval or denial.
If your claim is approved, you’ll receive a notice in the mail outlining your benefit amount and when payments will begin. SSDI benefits often include back pay.
If your claim is denied, don’t panic. Most people are denied at first. The next step is to file a Request for Reconsideration, which is the first level of appeal. If that’s also denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. This part of the process is often where strong legal representation makes a big difference.
Tips to Avoid Delays or Issues
Many delays and denials stem from preventable issues. Here’s how you can help keep your claim moving:
Keep your contact information updated: If the SSA or DDS can’t reach you, they may deny your claim due to non-response. Make sure they have your correct phone number, mailing address, and email.
Stay in touch with your doctor: Let your healthcare providers know that SSA or DDS may be requesting your records. Prompt responses from them can shorten your wait time.
Respond to SSA requests quickly: Whether it’s a request for more information or a consultative exam appointment, reply as soon as possible. Missing a deadline can cause major setbacks — or even a denial.
FAQ Section
How long does it take to get a decision after applying for SSDI or SSI in Oregon?
Most initial decisions take 5 or 6 months. Some may be faster, especially if your condition is listed in the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances list. However, delays due to missing records or backlogs are common.
Can I check the status of my disability application online?
Yes. You can log into your mySocialSecurity account at www.ssa.gov to check the status of your claim. You can also call the SSA or your local office for updates.
Will I have to attend a medical exam?
Not always. But if DDS doesn’t think your records are sufficient, they’ll schedule a consultative exam, or CE, with an independent doctor. If you’re scheduled for one, attend it—it’s an important part of your case.
What happens if my application is denied?
You have 60 days to request a reconsideration. If that’s denied, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge. Appeals can take time, but many people are eventually approved during the hearing phase—especially with the help of a local Social Security attorney.
Final Thoughts
The disability application process in Oregon can feel slow and frustrating, especially when you’re struggling with a serious health condition. But you’re not alone — and many applicants are eventually approved.
Delays are common, but manageable, especially if you know what to expect and how to stay on top of your responsibilities. Having a local disability lawyer by your side makes the process easier. At Drew L. Johnson, P.C. Attorneys At Law, we’ve helped people in Oregon get the benefits they deserve.
If you’ve filed your SSDI or SSI application and want to make sure things stay on track—or if you’ve already been denied and need help with an appeal—give us a call at (541) 434-6466. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
