What is the wait time for disability benefits in Maine?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 05/30/2025
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Maine involves multiple stages, each with its own processing time. Understanding these timelines can help set realistic expectations and prepare you for the journey ahead.
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.
Initial Application Decision
- Average Wait Time: Typically, it takes 3 to 6 months to receive a decision on your initial application.
- Quality Review Delays: If your case is selected for a quality review, this can add an additional 1 to 3 months to the process.
Reconsideration Stage (First Appeal)
- Average Wait Time: If your initial application is denied and you file for reconsideration, expect an additional 3 to 5 months for a decision.
Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
- Average Wait Time: Should your claim proceed to a hearing, the average wait time in Maine is approximately 9.5 months.
- Average Disposition Time: Once the hearing is held, it takes about 389 days on average to receive a decision.
Post-Approval Waiting Period
- Mandatory Waiting Period: After approval, there's a 5-month waiting period before SSDI benefits begin.
- First Payment: Benefits are typically paid in the 6th full month after the SSA determines your disability began.
How Hogan Smith Can Help You
Navigating the disability benefits process can be complex and time-consuming. At Hogan Smith, we assist Maine residents by:
- Ensuring Complete Applications: Helping you gather and submit all necessary documentation to prevent delays.
- Monitoring Your Claim: Keeping track of your application's progress and promptly addressing any issues.
- Representation: Advocating on your behalf during appeals and hearings to strengthen your case.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you're applying for disability benefits in Maine and want to minimize wait times and maximize your chances of approval, contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation. We're here to guide you every step of the way.
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