1. What Is Reconsideration?

Reconsideration is the first level of appeal after an initial denial. During this stage:

• Your entire claim is reviewed by a different disability examiner at the Illinois Disability Determination Services (DDS) office.
• They assess all previously submitted evidence plus any new medical records or documents you provide with your appeal.
• No in-person hearing occurs at this stage.

2. Typical Timeline for Reconsideration in Illinois

In Illinois, the average processing time for reconsideration is approximately three to six months. However, this timeframe can vary based on:

• Volume of claims at the DDS office at the time of filing
• Complexity of your medical condition, especially if multiple specialists are involved
• Speed of response from your doctors or hospitals when DDS requests additional medical records
• Whether a Consultative Examination (CE) is required to obtain further medical evidence

3. Step-by-Step Reconsideration Timeline

Here is a general breakdown of what happens during reconsideration:

• Filing Your Appeal (Day 0-5):
• You must file your Request for Reconsideration within 60 days of receiving your denial notice.
• Filing can be completed online at SSA.gov or by contacting your local SSA office.
• Ensure you submit any new or updated medical records, treatment notes, or test results with your appeal to strengthen your claim.
• Case Assignment (Weeks 1-2):
• Your appeal is assigned to a new disability examiner at Illinois DDS.
• They review your initial application, denial reasons, and all new evidence submitted.
• Medical Evidence Gathering (Weeks 2-8):
• DDS requests updated medical records from your providers.
• If your doctors delay responding, this stage can take longer than eight weeks.
• DDS may also contact you for clarification about treatments, symptoms, or limitations.
• Consultative Examination (If Needed) (Weeks 8-12+):
• If there is insufficient evidence to make a decision, DDS may schedule a Consultative Examination (CE) with an SSA-contracted doctor or specialist.
• This adds additional time, including scheduling, attending, and waiting for the CE report.
• Final Review and Decision (Weeks 12-24+):
• After gathering all required documentation and CE results, the examiner and medical consultant make a decision.
• You will receive a written notice by mail explaining the decision and next steps.

4. Why Does Reconsideration Take This Long?

Several factors contribute to the three to six month processing time:

• High volume of appeals due to frequent initial denials
• Time needed to obtain comprehensive medical records from multiple providers
• Scheduling delays for consultative exams
• Careful evaluation by DDS to ensure all aspects of your medical and work history are considered before issuing a decision

5. Possible Outcomes After Reconsideration

There are two possible outcomes:

• Approval: Your claim is approved, and SSA will notify you of your benefit amount and start date, including possible back pay from your application or eligibility date.
• Denial: If denied again, you can proceed to the next appeal stage by requesting a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) within 60 days of the denial notice.

6. Tips to Avoid Reconsideration Delays

To minimize delays during reconsideration:

• Submit your appeal as soon as possible after receiving your denial notice.
• Provide all updated medical records and test results with your appeal, rather than waiting for DDS to request them.
• Respond quickly to any DDS requests for forms, information, or consultative examination appointments.
• Notify DDS immediately if you change your phone number, address, or medical providers to avoid missed communications.

7. Emotional and Financial Preparation

Waiting several months for reconsideration can be stressful, especially if you are unable to work. During this time:

• Continue all doctor appointments and treatments to maintain strong ongoing medical documentation.
• Consider other community support programs or local assistance for temporary financial relief.
• Stay organized by keeping copies of all forms, notices, and correspondence related to your disability claim.