What is the processing time for reconsideration?
Asked by: Ella Cormier | Last update: June 24, 2026Score: 4.6/5 (23 votes)
Reconsideration processing times vary significantly based on the agency, often taking 3 to 6 months for Social Security Disability (SSDI) and a few weeks to 5 months for Canadian immigration (IRCC) requests. There is rarely a fixed timeline, as these depend on officer discretion, case complexity, and volume of requests.
How long does it take for reconsideration to be approved?
What Happens at Reconsideration? When an Initial Application has been denied, the applicant has 60 days to notify the Social Security Administration that they want to have their application Reconsidered. Then, it usually takes about 3 to 6 months for a Reconsideration to be processed, but it can sometimes take more.
How long does a reconsideration response take?
The reconsideration is the second phase in the disability determination process and generally takes between one and three months. If you are denied after submitting your initial disability application and file an appeal within 60-days of receiving your denial letter, the next phase is called the reconsideration phase.
How much time does a reconsideration request take?
Reconsideration Request IRCC Timeline
Processing time for reconsideration requests: It can take a few weeks (4 to 6 weeks) or even 4 to 5 months, as immigration officers have discretion in reconsideration request IRCC processing time.
What happens if reconsideration is denied?
If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is the most important stage for many claimants. You can present new evidence, bring witnesses, and have an attorney represent you. The ALJ will review your file and listen to your case before issuing a decision.
What to Expect After Filing Your Request for Reconsideration for Social Security Disability Benefits
What is the next step after mandatory reconsideration?
If you're unhappy with the decision after mandatory reconsideration, you can appeal it to a tribunal.
What happens during a reconsideration?
The reconsideration involves a thorough, independent review of all evidence from the initial determination and any new evidence the claimant or their appointed representative, parent of minor child, or legal guardian submits, or we obtain, in connection with the request for reconsideration.
What is the time limit for reconsideration?
A party to an appeal asking for reconsideration must provide very good reasons that point to a serious defect in the original appeal decision. An application to reconsider a decision must be made within six months of the decision date, or within six months of new evidence becoming available.
How to win a reconsideration appeal?
7 tips to help with your SSDI reconsideration
- Understand what kind of denial you received.
- File your reconsideration request on time.
- Don't forget the reconsideration forms.
- Fill out an appeals letter.
- Provide new medical documentation.
- Get a letter from your doctor.
- Get a disability lawyer.
Why is my mandatory reconsideration taking so long?
The DWP doesn't have to make the decision within a specific timescale and sometimes it can take several months to get your decision letter - this letter is called a 'mandatory reconsideration notice'. You'll be sent 2 copies - you'll need to send 1 off if you need to go to the next stage of appeal.
How long does a motion to reconsider take USCIS?
When should I expect to receive a decision on a motion? A. Although some cases may take longer, USCIS field offices and service centers try to adjudicate motions within 90 days. The AAO strives to complete its review of motions within 180 days from the time it receives a complete case file.
What is a notice of reconsideration?
Definition & meaning. A request for reconsideration is a formal appeal submitted to the administrative judge who made an initial decision regarding a case. This request asks the judge to review and potentially change their decision, either in full or in part.
How long does it take to be approved after reconsideration?
A Social Security disability reconsideration (first appeal) typically takes 3 to 9 months for a decision, with an average of roughly 7 months (approx. 213 days) based on recent data. While many applicants wait 3 to 6 months, it can take over a year depending on backlogs.
How much SSDI will I get if I make $60,000 a year?
Based on a $60,000 annual income, you can expect an estimated SSDI monthly benefit between $1,400 and $2,100 in 2025–2026, though specific amounts depend on your full work history. Benefits are calculated based on your average indexed monthly earnings (AIME) over your highest-earning 35 years, not just your current salary.
What are common grounds for reconsideration?
Common grounds for reconsideration include the discovery of new evidence, a clear error of law or fact in the original ruling, an intervening change in controlling law, or a need to prevent manifest injustice. These motions are generally designed to correct errors and are rarely granted simply due to disagreement with the outcome.
Why is my reconsideration taking so long?
The delayed review of medical records can also contribute to longer wait times in the reconsideration process for disability claims. Therefore, it is crucial to provide complete information at the initial and reconsideration stages to avoid further delay.
What are common reconsideration mistakes?
While preparing a reconsideration appeal, it's important to avoid pitfalls that could weaken your case. Some common mistakes include: Submitting incomplete or outdated forms. Failing to provide new or additional evidence to support your claim. Missing deadlines for filing the appeal.
What is step 3 of the reconsideration process?
Step 3: Medical Listings
At Step 3, the question is whether your impairment meets or equals a medical “Listing.” Social Security has broken down the human body and mind into 14 different Impairment categories, called the Listing of Impairments.
Do I need a lawyer for reconsideration?
No, you do not need a lawyer to request a reconsideration. However, a lawyer can increase your chances of winning three times at the hearing stage. Working with a lawyer is beneficial because the lawyer will assess your case, help you gather and submit documentation, and represent you at the hearing.
How many weeks does a mandatory reconsideration take?
Some reconsiderations take two weeks, some take several months. If you have not received your Mandatory Reconsideration Notice.
How many days to file a reconsideration?
Social Security Reconsideration Timeline
Filing the Request: After receiving a denial on your initial application, you have 60 days to file a reconsideration request. This includes completing Form SSA-561 and submitting any updated medical evidence or employment records.