2025 SSDI Knowledge Report

Atticus set out to uncover how well Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) applicants understand the process, what emotional hurdles they face, and how their experiences differ across generations. The findings offer a clearer picture of where confusion and stress persist, and where some progress may be happening.

Key takeaways

• Fewer than 1 in 200 SSDI beneficiaries (0.46%) answered all SSDI knowledge questions correctly in 2025, compared to 1 in 20 (5%) in 2023.

• 1 in 2 respondents (53%) wish they had known how long the process could take before applying.

• 1 in 2 respondents (52%) wish they had known how mentally and emotionally draining the process would be.

• About 2 in 5 millennials (39%) and 2 in 5 Gen Z applicants (40%) reported a positive experience, compared to around 1 in 2 baby boomers (51%).

• SSDI applicants waited an average of 8 months for a decision in 2025, up from 7 months in 2023.

Gaps remain in SSDI knowledge

In 2025, fewer than 1% of SSDI beneficiaries (0.46%) correctly answered all 14 questions. That’s a sharp decline from our 2023 knowledge survey, when 5% achieved a perfect score. This shift points to growing confusion about key aspects of the disability benefits system.

SSDI knowledge assessment: 2023 vs. 2025 comparison

The emotional toll of applying for SSDI is too high

A lack of understanding isn't the only challenge SSDI applicants face in 2025. Many also struggle with the emotional weight of the process.

How long the application process takes

• In 2023, SSDI applicants waited an average of 7 months for a decision. In 2025, that number increased to 8 months. More than half (53%) wish they had known how long the process could take before applying and how mentally and emotionally draining it would be (52%).

The length of the application process is a major concern that Atticus hears from clients. And while a lawyer can help make the work of the process easier — like by completing paperwork, filing appeals, and gathering medical records — there are still long SSA processing times. In addition to the wait for an initial decision, getting a reconsideration decision takes an average of six months, and getting a hearing takes another eight months, on average.

Most difficult parts of the SSDI application process

• The waiting period: 29%

• Being denied or having to appeal: 24%

• Completing paperwork: 18%

• Gathering medical records: 10%

• Communicating with the SSA: 10%

• Understanding the eligibility criteria: 5%

How each generation described their SSDI experience

The SSA generally makes it easier for applicants who are 55 or older to prove their medical eligibility for SSDI. Younger individuals are held to a higher standard of proving that they can’t work because of their medical condition. Perhaps unsurprisingly, baby boomers reported a higher overall satisfaction with the application process.

Baby boomers

• Positive: 51%

• Neutral: 24%

• Negative: 24%

Gen X

• Positive: 36%

• Neutral: 22%

• Negative: 42%

Millennials

• Positive: 39%

• Neutral: 17%

• Negative: 44%

Gen Z

• Positive: 40%

• Neutral: 16%

• Negative: 44%

Methodology

We surveyed 250 SSDI beneficiaries to explore misunderstandings and emotional challenges surrounding the SSDI application process. The average age of respondents was 46; 62% were women, 36% were men, and 2% were non-binary. Generationally, 18% were baby boomers, 32% were Gen X, 39% were millennials, and 12% were Gen Z. Due to rounding, some percentages in this study may not total 100% exactly.

About Atticus

Atticus is a public interest law firm that helps Americans in a crisis secure aid from the government. Through a dedicated team of lawyers and client advocates, we specialize in helping individuals claim their rightful benefits in challenging times.

Fair Use Statement

This data may be shared for noncommercial purposes with proper attribution. Please include a link back to Atticus if you reference or republish any part of this report.