As the government shutdown continues into the second week, here is what those individuals who are applying for benefits and have pending applications can expect. The local offices continue to be open on a limited basis and are processing new applications.

For those individuals who recently had a hearing and are waiting on a decision from an Administrative Law Judge, there will be delays. While Administrative Law Judges are still holding hearings during the shutdown, the legal assistants and attorneys at the hearing offices who draft and process the decisions are furloughed. Therefore, decisions will be delayed in excess of the normal processing time of 30 to 60 days because of the government shutdown.

Services still ongoing:

  • Hearings will continue as scheduled.
  • Individuals are able to file an initial application for disability benefits.
  • SSD Appeals will continue to be processed.
  • Individuals are able to change their address or direct deposit information.
  • Critical payments are still being issued.

The Joye Law Firm’s Social Security Department is continuing to process applications during this time. Please call us at 843-554-3100 if you would like to apply for Social Security disability benefits or have questions regarding your pending application.

About the Author

Since 1968, the South Carolina personal injury and workers’ compensation attorneys of Joye Law Firm have been committed to securing compensation for accident and injury victims. Our compassionate and dedicated lawyers have over 300 years of combined litigation experience, and many of them have been recognized as South Carolina Super Lawyers. For many years, our South Carolina personal injury law firm has been listed with an AV rating in the prestigious Martindale-Hubbell legal directory.

Recent Blog Post
Types of Chronic Pain
How Chronic Pain Affects the Brain & How to Calculate Damages

Chronic pain is more than a lingering ache. It is a medical condition that reshapes the brain, alters the body’s response to stress, and changes lives in lasting ways. Unlike acute pain, which typically subsides as an injury heals, chronic…

2026 Best Law Firm Badge
Joye Law Firm Selected for Best Law Firms® in America by Best Lawyers®

Joye Law Firm Injury Lawyers is proud to announce that the firm has been selected for inclusion in 2026’s The Best Law Firms® in America by Best Lawyers®. This prestigious recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence, client service, and…

Image of a doctor talking to a patient
Does My Job Have to Give Me Time Off for Doctor Appointments if I File for Workers’ Comp?

The simple answer is yes. However, there are important details you need to be aware of to ensure your rights are protected. Being injured on the job might require a lot of medical attention, including emergency visits, hospital stays, and…

texting while driving
South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act Aims to Prevent Collisions

A new South Carolina law outlaws the use of handheld mobile electronic devices while driving. Taking effect on September 1st, 2025, the South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act aims to raise awareness and decrease the number of accidents caused…

Awards & Recognition
Media
ABC
NBC
Fox
CBS News
ESPN Radio logo