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Processing time for benefits

Each year, we typically sign up over 6 million new customers for the Retirement, Survivor, and Medicare programs. We're committed to ensuring that our customers get their payments or coverage promptly.

The SecurityStat process

  • Set a strategic goal.
    Process 83% of Retirement, Survivor, or Medicare claims in time for payment at the earliest point due (or within 2 weeks of filing for benefits if filed too late for payment at the earliest point due).

  • Drive leading actions.
    Encourage more customers to use SSA.gov to enroll and complete other common tasks. This will free up field office staff to focus on customers who need more help.

  • Track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) over time.
    Percentage of people getting benefits on time or within 2 weeks of applying.

Percentage of people receiving benefits on time or within 2 weeks of applying

By fiscal year and monthly

Remote Media URL

This chart shows the percentage of on-time receipt of benefit, by fiscal year or month. The current fiscal year data includes results through the last completed month. The percentage enrolled timely differs from the average time it takes to complete a Retirement, Survivor, or Medicare application and does not include Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income applications. Those programs have separate, longer application processes. 

By local field office

Remote Media URL

This map shows fiscal year to date performance on enrollment timeliness for each of our more than 1,200 local field offices.

Last updated on December 10, 2024