How long does SSDI approval take in Arkansas?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 07/25/2025
If you’re applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Arkansas, understanding how long the process can take will help you plan your finances and medical care while waiting for approval.
Find out if you qualify for SSDI benefits. Pre-qualify in 60 seconds for up to $4,018 per month and 12 months back pay.
Please answer a few questions to help us determine your eligibility.
1. Initial Application Decision
In Arkansas, the initial SSDI application decision generally takes about 3 to 6 months (90 to 180 days). This timeline depends on how quickly:
- Your medical records are gathered and reviewed
- Consultative examinations are scheduled, if needed
- The Disability Determination Services (DDS) completes their review
2. Reconsideration Stage
If your initial claim is denied, you can request reconsideration within 60 days. The reconsideration review usually takes an additional 2 to 4 months. During this stage, your application is reviewed by a different examiner, but approvals remain relatively low unless there is significant new medical evidence.
3. Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an ALJ. In Arkansas:
- The average wait time for a hearing is approximately 7 to 11 months, depending on which hearing office handles your case.
- After your hearing, it typically takes an additional 2 to 3 months to receive the judge’s written decision.
4. Overall Timeline If Appeals Are Needed
If your SSDI claim goes through all stages, the overall timeline can be:
- Initial application: 3 – 6 months
- Reconsideration: +2 – 4 months
- Hearing wait and decision: +9 – 14 months
This means the full process can take 12 to 24 months or longer, depending on case complexity, hearing office backlogs, and how quickly evidence is submitted.
5. Factors That Affect Approval Time
Several factors can shorten or lengthen your approval timeline:
- Completeness of your application and supporting medical records
- Whether SSA needs additional exams or evaluations
- Backlogs at your local DDS or hearing office
- The severity and clarity of your medical documentation
6. How to Help Speed Up Your Case
To avoid unnecessary delays:
- Submit complete medical documentation from the start
- Respond quickly to SSA requests for additional information
- Keep your contact information updated to avoid missed communications
- Continue your medical treatment consistently and inform SSA of any new diagnoses or worsening symptoms
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we support SSDI applicants in Arkansas by:
- Preparing strong, accurate initial applications to reduce denial risks
- Collecting and organizing medical evidence efficiently
- Managing your appeals process and ensuring deadlines are never missed
- Representing you at hearings, presenting your case clearly to the judge to maximize approval chances
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re applying for SSDI in Arkansas or facing delays in your case, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We will guide you through every stage, ensuring you are well-prepared to secure the disability benefits you need.
Further Reading
Boost Your Chance of Being Approved
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Our experts have helped thousands like you get cash benefits.
How It Works
1
Briefly tell us about your case
2
Provide your contact information
3
Choose attorneys to contact you