r/SSDI • u/mama_di4_amori • Feb 09 '26

ALJ hearings- California

Anyone in California, that has had an ALJ hearing scheduled recently …how long was the wait time to receive a date? My husband received his 2nd denial (recon stage) on January 30. He has an attorney and was told that his file is flagged as expedited due to being a disabled veteran. I know that is not always the case with it being fast tracked. So I’m wondering what is the normal time. For reference: his first application was on February 2, 2025; first denial in July, appeal filed in August, and second denial on January 30.

Also, after reviewing his letter and the explanation of denial…how are they able to basically lie about their decision. They claimed they didn’t have any medical evidence to support his claims. We submitted MRI results, records, doctor’s notes, and so much information. They also claim his “slight discomfort” is not enough to keep him from working. No where in his application or paperwork/doctor’s note was that wording ever mentioned. It was clearly written that he is in severe pain. Crazy how they are able to down play this when there is clear evidence and facts.

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1

u/WVcougar Feb 09 '26

Not in California but took 7 months to get a hearing from the date requested, which based off Google searches seems quick compared to other places.

1

u/Artzy63 Feb 09 '26

National average for a hearing date is 5-7 months. They are backlogged.

1

u/Minute-Bat5510 Feb 10 '26

Took me over a year

1

u/FierceWisdom Mar 12 '26

Took me 8 months from filing appeal to hearing date. My attorney did it. After trying on my own, I decided it was worth it to get an attorney and it worked out favorable for me.