It took me 3 months. I used a law firm to collect my medical records and forward them to the SSA. But I did the main paperwork myself. By that I mean the 13 page thing about daily living routines and job history. Before doing it, I watched lawyer sponsored videos on youtube and read lots of stuff on-line about what they go by in reviewing the info you provide. That made all the difference. I made mine real detailed and was not shy about sharing unflattering info about myself.