People waiting for a determination on their disability claim can have a very difficult time. Not only is there concern about health and lessened ability to function, but there is often real anxiety due to financial stress. And it often takes two years or more from the day a claimant initially applies for disability to the day a decision arrives in the mail after a hearing.

I try hasten a decision whenever possible. Here are six tips to keep your claim moving:

• Appeal denied claims right away – there is no reason to wait 60 days to appeal.
• Provide DDS with any requested information as soon as possible.
• Keep in touch with the disability examiner at DDS, so the case doesn't get put on the back burner. 
• Tell Social Security if the claimant meets the criteria for a critical case or dire need, and provide appropriate documentation.
• Make an on the record request (when appropriate).
• And lastly, ask the judge for a bench decision in your hearing memorandum for a case that you expect to be granted at hearing.

These actions, alone or in combination, can save months of waiting time for the decision on your claim.