The latest average processing time statistics for Social Security hearing offices around the country were distributed by NOSSCR in the September 2010 Social Security Forum, a newsletter for NOSSCR members. 

The average processing time for the Portland, Maine hearing office is now just 336 days, which is about 11 months.

Processing time runs from the date of the hearing request to the day a decision is issued. The 336 days is an average. Some disability claims are resolved more quickly, but a disability or SSI claim that requires a hearing and a written decision may take longer.

The judges and staff of the Portland hearing office should be commended for this excellent processing time, which is among the best in the country. The delays in Maine are now at the Reconsideration level, where 6 months can be lost waiting for a determination.