Originally Posted by Mz Migraine

No it is NOT the norm. It depends on the backlog of the state you reside in. Some states are more backlogged than others, and some have no backlogs.

If you decide to hire an attorney, ask about the SSD backlog in your state. The attorney will have some idea of how long it will take from beginning to end.

If your state has a backlog, I strongly recommend that you start saving $$ now AND start checking your county, city and/or state programs long before your "savings" are exhausted.