The Basic Steps to explore for SSDI

You can explore for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in three ways: online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or in person at your local Social Security office. The online process takes about 15 to 20 minutes if you have your documents ready. You do not need to visit an office to start—most people begin online or by phone.

When you explore, Social Security will ask about your medical condition, when it started, the doctors and hospitals treating you, and your work history. They will also ask about your income and resources. Have your Social Security number, birth certificate, and medical records information nearby before you start. If you explore online, you can save your progress and come back to finish later.

After you submit your process, Social Security sends it to your state's Disability information Services office. That office reviews your medical evidence and makes the decision. This process usually takes 3 to 6 months, though it can take longer if they need more information from your doctors.

Key Takeaways

  • You can start your SSDI process online at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or at your local Social Security office.
  • Social Security will need your medical records, work history, and information about your condition before and after it started.
  • The decision process takes 3 to 6 months on average, and Social Security may ask your doctors for more details about your condition.
  • If Social Security denies your process, you have the right to appeal within 60 days of receiving the denial letter.
  • You can work with a disability representative or attorney to help with your process, and they are only paid if you win.

What Documents You Need Before You Start

Gather these documents before you begin your process. You will need your Social Security number, birth certificate, and proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or immigration documents.

You will also need information about your medical treatment. Write down the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all doctors, hospitals, and clinics that have treated you for your condition. Include the dates you saw each provider. If you have recent test results, imaging reports, or medical records at home, have those available—you can upload them during the online process or mention them when you call.

Social Security will request your medical records directly from your providers, so you do not have to collect them yourself. However, having this information ready speeds up the process. You will also need your work history for the past 15 years, including the names of employers and the dates you worked for each one.

explore Online at SSA.gov

Go to ssa.gov and look for "explore for Disability." The online form walks you through your medical history, work history, and personal information step by step. You can save your progress at any point and log back in to finish later using your my Social Security account. If you do not have a my Social Security account, you can create one during the process.

The online process is the fastest way to explore because Social Security receives it when ready. You will get a confirmation number when you finish. Write this number down—you can use it to check the status of your process later. Social Security will contact you if they need more information.

If you get stuck on any question, you can call 1-800-772-1213 to speak with someone who can help you finish the process over the phone instead. This is a good option if you are not comfortable using the website or if you have questions about what information to provide.

explore by Phone or In Person

Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for people who are deaf or hard of hearing) to explore over the phone. A Social Security representative will ask you the same questions as the online form. The call usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. You can call Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time. Wait times are usually shorter early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

You can also walk into your local Social Security office to explore in person. Find your office at ssa.gov/locator. Some offices require you to make an appointment first. Bring your documents with you—your Social Security number, birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and information about your doctors and work history.

explore by phone or in person takes longer than explore online because Social Security has to process the form after your call or visit. However, some people prefer speaking to someone directly, especially if they have questions about their condition or work history.

What Happens After You Submit Your process

After Social Security receives your process, they send it to your state's Disability information Services office. That office is responsible for reviewing your medical evidence and deciding whether your condition meets Social Security's definition of disability. They will order your medical records from the doctors and hospitals you listed.

Social Security may contact your doctors to ask specific questions about your condition, your treatment, and how your condition affects your ability to work. This is called a consultative examination request. Your doctors usually answer these questions in writing, but sometimes Social Security will schedule you for an examination with a doctor they choose. If that happens, Social Security pays for the examination.

You will receive a decision letter in the mail. The letter explains whether Social Security approved or denied your process and why. If approved, it tells you when your benefits start and how much you will receive each month. If denied, the letter explains the reason and tells you how to appeal.

Understanding the Decision Timeline

The time from process to decision varies. Initial decisions usually take 3 to 6 months, but some cases take longer. Cases involving complex medical conditions, multiple providers, or incomplete medical records take more time. Social Security will contact you if they need more information from you or your doctors.

You can check the status of your process online through your my Social Security account or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Have your confirmation number ready. Social Security can tell you whether they are still gathering medical records, waiting for information from your doctors, or reviewing your case.

If Social Security denies your process, you do not have to wait for a new process year to try again. You can file an appeal within 60 days of receiving the denial letter. Many people are approved on appeal because Social Security has more time to review the evidence and you have a chance to provide additional medical information.

Working With a Representative or Attorney

You can hire a disability representative or attorney to help with your process and appeals. They can gather your medical records, help you organize your information, and represent you if you need to appeal. You do not have to hire someone—many people explore on their own and are approved.

If you do hire a representative, they are only paid if you win your case. Social Security pays them directly from your back pay (the money owed to you from the date your disability began). The payment is limited by law—currently a maximum of $6,000 or 25 percent of your back pay, whichever is less. You do not pay anything out of your own pocket.

You can find representatives through the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (nosscr.org) or by asking a local legal aid office. Some disability advocates work for free or low cost if you have limited income.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work while my SSDI process is being reviewed?

Yes. You can work and earn money while waiting for a decision. However, if you earn more than $1,550 per month (in 2024), Social Security may decide you are not disabled. The amount changes each year. If you are working, tell Social Security about your job and income when you explore.

What if I do not have all my medical records when I explore?

You do not need to have your records before you explore. Social Security will request them from your doctors and hospitals. However, the faster you can provide them, the faster Social Security can make a decision. If you have recent records at home, upload them during the online process or mention them when you call.

Do I have to go to a doctor's appointment that Social Security schedules?

Yes. If Social Security schedules a consultative examination, you should go. If you cannot make the appointment, call Social Security to reschedule. Missing the appointment without a good reason can result in a denial of your process.

What does Social Security mean by "disability"?

Social Security has a specific definition: you must have a medical condition that prevents you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Your condition must be severe enough that you cannot do the work you did before and cannot adjust to other work that exists in the economy.

How much will I receive each month if I am approved?

Your monthly benefit amount depends on your work history and earnings record. Social Security calculates it based on your average earnings over your working years. You can see an estimate of your benefit amount in your my Social Security account or by calling 1-800-772-1213.