SSDI Appeals Guide
Home / By State / Tennessee

SSDI Appeals in Tennessee

Your guide to filing an SSDI appeal in Tennessee — ALJ hearing office, wait times, state resources, and step-by-step process.

ALJ Hearing Office
Nashville ODAR, Memphis ODAR, Chattanooga ODAR
Average Wait Time
13–17 months
State SSI Supplement
Tennessee does not supplement federal SSI payments.
Denied in Tennessee?
Talk to a disability attorney for free — no upfront costs, contingency only.
Free Consultation

Disability in Tennessee

Approximately 15% of Tennessee adults receive disability benefits.

Tennessee has above-average disability rates with three ODAR offices serving major cities. Tennessee's industrial and manufacturing workforce history contributes to high physical impairment claim rates.

Filing in Tennessee

  1. Apply online at ssa.gov or visit a local Social Security office.
  2. Initial decision: Tennessee DHS Division of Rehabilitation Services processes initial applications.
  3. Reconsideration: File within 60 days of denial.
  4. ALJ Hearing: Nashville (central TN), Memphis (western TN), or Chattanooga (eastern TN) ODAR. Average wait: 13–17 months.
  5. Appeals Council and Federal Court (U.S. District Courts for the Eastern, Middle, or Western District of Tennessee) if needed.

Talk to a Disability Attorney — Free Consultation

SSDI attorneys in Tennessee work on contingency — you pay nothing unless you win. Fees are capped at 25% of back pay (maximum $9,200 in 2025).

Get a Free Case Evaluation