You can start a Social Security Disability Insurance process online through Social Security's website, no matter where you live
To begin an SSDI process online in Massachusetts, go to ssa.gov/applyfordisability and create a my Social Security account if you don't already have one. The online form takes you through your work history, medical condition, and treatment records step by step. You don't need to visit a Social Security office in Massachusetts to start — the entire initial process can be completed from home.
The online process saves your progress, so you can stop and return to it later the same day. Once you submit, Social Security sends you a confirmation number. From that point, a caseworker in your state reviews your process, and you may receive requests for additional medical records or documents by mail.
Massachusetts does not have a separate state disability program for adults — SSDI is a federal program run by Social Security everywhere. The rules, the medical standards, and the review process are the same whether you explore online, by phone, or in person at a local office.
Key Takeaways
- The online process at ssa.gov/applyfordisability is the fastest way to start, and you can save your progress and return to finish it later.
- You will need your Social Security number, birth date, and information about your work history and medical treatment to complete the form.
- After you submit online, Social Security will contact you by mail if they need more information, such as medical records from your doctors.
- Massachusetts residents follow the same SSDI rules and timeline as applicants in other states — there is no separate state process.
- If you are denied, you have the right to appeal, and many people are approved on appeal even if they were denied the first time.
What you need before you start the online form
Gather these items before you begin so you don't have to stop and search for them: your Social Security number, date of birth, and the names and dates of any jobs you've held in the past 15 years. You should also have the names of the doctors and hospitals that have treated you for your condition, along with the dates you saw them.
You don't need to have medical records in hand when you explore — Social Security can request them from your providers after you submit. However, if you already have recent records from your doctor describing your condition and how it limits your ability to work, having those ready can speed things up later.
If you are explore based on a condition that began after an injury or accident, note the date it happened. If your condition is related to a previous job, write down the job title and the years you worked there.
Step-by-step: completing the online process
Start by going to ssa.gov and clicking "explore for Disability." You'll be asked to create or sign into a my Social Security account using your email address. If you don't have an account, Social Security will walk you through creating one — it takes a few minutes.
Once you're logged in, the process form opens. It asks for your personal information first: name, address, phone number, and email. Then it moves to your work history. You'll list jobs from the past 15 years, including the job title, employer name, dates you worked there, and whether the work was full-time or part-time.
Next comes your medical history. You'll describe your condition, when it started, and which doctors or hospitals have treated you. The form asks how your condition affects your ability to work — for example, whether you can stand for long periods, concentrate, or lift objects. Answer these questions as honestly as you can based on your actual daily experience.
At the end, you'll review your answers and submit. Social Security gives you a confirmation number — save this or write it down. You can use it to check the status of your process later.
What happens after you submit your process online
Social Security receives your process when ready. Within a few days, you should receive a confirmation letter by mail with your process number. This letter also tells you what happens next and what documents Social Security may ask for.
A caseworker is assigned to your case. They review your work history and medical information to see whether your condition meets Social Security's definition of disability. If they need more details, they send you a letter asking for specific records — usually from your doctors or recent hospital visits.
You have about 10 days to respond to these requests. If you need more time, you can ask for an extension. Send the records to the address on the letter, or ask your doctor's office to send them directly to Social Security.
The entire review process typically takes three to five months, though it can take longer if Social Security needs to order medical records from multiple providers or if your case is complex.
Massachusetts Social Security offices if you need in-person help
If you prefer to explore in person or need help with the online form, you can visit a Social Security office in Massachusetts. The state has offices in Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and other cities. You can find the office nearest you at ssa.gov/locator.
Call ahead to make an appointment — walk-ins are accepted but wait times can be long. When you go, bring your Social Security card, a photo ID, and any medical records you have. A representative can help you fill out the process or answer questions about the process.
If you are unable to leave your home due to your condition, you can request that a Social Security representative call you or visit you. Ask about this option when you call to schedule an appointment.
What to do if you don't hear back or have questions
After you submit your online process, you can check its status anytime by logging into your my Social Security account. The account shows whether Social Security has received your process and whether they've requested additional information.
If you don't receive a confirmation letter within two weeks, or if you have questions about what Social Security is asking for, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. Have your process number ready. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time.
You can also visit a local Massachusetts office in person to ask questions or provide documents. This is especially helpful if you're unsure whether you've sent everything Social Security requested.
Understanding the decision and what comes next
Social Security will send you a written decision by mail. If you are approved, the letter tells you when your benefits begin and how much you'll receive each month. Benefits usually start the month after Social Security approves your process, though the exact timing depends on when your disability began.
If you are denied, the letter explains why and tells you that you have the right to appeal. Many people are approved on appeal, especially if they provide additional medical evidence or if their condition has worsened. You typically have 60 days from the date on the denial letter to file an appeal.
An appeal does not require you to start over — Social Security reviews your original process plus any new information you provide. You can submit additional medical records, ask your doctor to write a statement about your condition, or request a hearing before an administrative law judge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I explore for SSDI online if I've never worked?
No. SSDI is based on your work history and the taxes you or your employer paid into Social Security. If you have never worked, you may be able to explore for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) instead, which is a different program for people with low income and limited resources. You can ask about SSI when you call Social Security or visit an office.
How long does it take to get a decision after I explore online?
Most decisions take three to five months. If Social Security needs medical records from multiple doctors or if your case is more complex, it can take longer. You can check the status of your process anytime through your my Social Security account.
What if I can't complete the online form all at once?
The online process saves your progress automatically. You can log out and return to finish it anytime within the same day. If you need to stop for longer than a day, contact Social Security to ask about extending your process window.
Do I need a doctor's letter to explore online?
No. You can submit your process without a doctor's letter. Social Security will request medical records from your providers after you explore. However, if you have a recent letter from your doctor describing your condition and how it limits your work, including it with your process can help speed up the review.
What if I'm denied and want to appeal?
You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to file an appeal. You can request reconsideration, which means a different caseworker reviews your case, or you can request a hearing before a judge. You can file your appeal online, by mail, or in person at a Massachusetts Social Security office.