Medical conditions leading to disability aren't always permanent. In some cases, people may be able to return to work after a period out of the workforce. But what happens if your symptoms get worse again or you come down with a new medical issue? At Disability Services of America, we help people nationwide understand their options for restarting disability benefits. The choice between Expedited Reinstatement and a completely new SSDI application can significantly impact how quickly you receive financial support.
Understanding Expedited Reinstatement
The Expedited Reinstatement (EXR) program allows former SSDI recipients to restart benefits without filing out a completely new application. This option became available in 2001 to help disabled workers who attempted to return to work but couldn't sustain employment due to their condition.
To qualify for Expedited Reinstatement, you must have previously received SSDI benefits and be unable to work due to the same condition or a related condition. Additionally, EXR must be requested within five years of your benefits ending, and you must meet all current disability standards.
As the name suggests, Expedited Reinstatement requests are processed more quickly than brand-new applications. While a standard disability insurance application can take three to five months of processing for an initial decision, EXR decisions often come within 60 days. During the review period, the Social Security Administration (SSA) can provide up to six months of provisional payments to help cover immediate expenses.
Filing a New SSDI Application
A new application means you must prove your disability all over again from scratch. You'll need current medical records, work history documentation, and evidence showing how your condition prevents you from maintaining employment.
New applications go through the same multiple stages as your first time applying. That means you can expect a three- to five-month review period, as well as an additional three to five months for reconsideration if your application is denied. If denied a second time, you will likely need to wait 12 to 18 months or longer for a hearing with an administrative law judge.
The advantage of filing fresh is that you're not limited to proving your condition remained the same. If your health declined or you developed new impairments since your benefits ended, a new application lets you present all current medical evidence.
Comparing Your Options
If your health took a turn for the better and you returned to work, but now are unable to earn an income again, it's important to carefully consider which option to take. If you need SSDI benefits to cover your bills, the expedited path may work more quickly in some circumstances. On the other hand, starting a new claim might make more sense if your condition or circumstances have changed. Comparing both routes helps you choose the path that gets you support more smoothly.
Timeline Differences
Expedited Reinstatement typically provides faster access to benefits than starting a new SSDI application from scratch. The provisional payments during an EXR review help bridge the gap while awaiting a decision.
With EXR, you must show that your original disabling condition persists or worsened. A new application allows you to include any qualifying condition at all, even if it's unrelated to your previous disability.
Appeals Process
If the SSA denies your EXR request, you can immediately file a new application without waiting through the reconsideration stage. New application denials require working through the full appeals process, however.
Work Credits
Both options require sufficient work credits to be approved. If your work credits expired, you may need to file for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) instead of SSDI.
When Expedited Reinstatement Makes Sense
Applying for an Expedited Reinstatement of SSDI benefits is probably in your best interest if:
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Your benefits ended within the past five years
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Your condition remained stable or worsened
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You need immediate financial assistance
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Your work attempt failed due to the same health issues as before
The provisional payments provide crucial support while the SSA reviews your case. Even if the SSA denies your reinstatement request, you haven't lost time because you can immediately file a new application.
When Filing a New Application Is Better
Instead of going through the expedited process, consider starting fresh with a brand new SSDI application if:
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More than five years have passed since your benefits ended
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You developed additional disabling conditions
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Your original condition improved, but new health problems emerged
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Your work credits recently increased
A new application allows you to present a comprehensive picture of your current health without being required to prove continuity with your past disability.
Getting Professional Guidance
The decision between EXR and a new SSDI application depends on your specific circumstances. Factors like the severity of your condition, how long ago your benefits ended, and whether your impairments changed all influence which option serves you best.
Disability Services of America offers complimentary consultations to assist you in evaluating your situation. Our team reviews your work history, medical records, and current health status to recommend the most effective approach for restarting your benefits.
We handle the paperwork, gather medical evidence, and ensure your request includes all necessary documentation. Whether you pursue EXR or file a new application, we advocate for your right to receive the financial support you need. Don't go it alone – get help from our professionals.