Where to start your process in Wisconsin

To explore for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Wisconsin, you work directly with Social Security, not with a Wisconsin state agency. Social Security handles all disability decisions regardless of where you live. You can start your process online, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office.

The online process at ssa.gov is the fastest route for most people. You can fill it out at your own pace, save your progress, and submit it whenever you're ready. If you prefer to talk to someone first, you can call Social Security's national number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) and ask to start an process over the phone. A representative will walk you through the questions and submit it for you.

Wisconsin also has a network of Social Security field offices where you can explore in person. The office nearest you depends on your zip code — you can find the address and hours on ssa.gov by entering your location. Walking in without an appointment is possible, but calling ahead to schedule one usually means a shorter wait.

Key Takeaways

  • You explore to Social Security directly, not to Wisconsin, and you can start online at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Social Security office.
  • The online process lets you work at your own pace and save your progress, while a phone process takes about 30 minutes with a representative.
  • You will need your Social Security number, birth certificate, medical records from your doctors, and a list of jobs you have held in the past 15 years.
  • After you submit, Social Security sends your case to the Wisconsin Division of Disability information, which makes the decision and contacts you by mail within 3 to 5 months.
  • If you are denied, you can request reconsideration or appeal, and many people hire a disability lawyer to help with the appeal process.

What documents and information you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin your process, whether online or by phone. You will need your Social Security number, birth certificate, and proof of citizenship or legal residency (a passport, naturalization papers, or a green card). Have your current address and phone number ready.

Social Security will ask about your medical conditions and the doctors or hospitals that have treated you. Write down the names, addresses, and phone numbers of every healthcare provider you have seen in the past year or two, even if you only went once. Include mental health providers, physical therapists, and any specialists. If you have recent test results, imaging reports, or medical records at home, gather those too — you do not have to send them with your process, but having them on hand helps you answer questions accurately.

You will also need a list of jobs you have held in the past 15 years, with approximate start and end dates and the type of work you did. If you are still working, include your current job and how much you earn per month. If you receive workers' compensation or unemployment benefits, have those details ready as well.

explore online at ssa.gov

Go to ssa.gov/applyfordisability and select "explore for Disability." You will create a personal my Social Security account if you do not already have one. This requires your email address and a password you create. Social Security will send you a verification code to confirm your email.

The online form asks about your medical conditions, when they started, how they affect your ability to work, your work history, and your living situation. You can answer questions in any order and save your progress — the form will hold your answers for up to 30 days. If you need to step away, log back in with your email and password to continue where you left off.

At the end, you will see a summary of what you entered. Review it for accuracy, then submit. Social Security will send you a confirmation number and tell you what happens next. You do not need to mail anything or visit an office unless Social Security asks you to.

explore by phone or in person

To explore by phone, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. Have your documents and work history list nearby. A representative will ask the same questions as the online form — the call usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. They will submit your process and give you a confirmation number before you hang up.

To explore in person, find your nearest Wisconsin Social Security office on ssa.gov and call ahead to schedule an appointment if possible. Bring your Social Security number, birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and your list of doctors and jobs. A representative will fill out the process with you, answer your questions, and submit it on the spot. You will receive a confirmation number before you leave.

What happens after you submit your process

Social Security sends your process to the Wisconsin Division of Disability information, a state agency that reviews medical evidence and makes the disability decision. You will not hear from them when ready — the review typically takes 3 to 5 months, though it can take longer if your case is complex or if they need more medical records.

During this time, Social Security may contact you to ask follow-up questions or request medical records directly from your doctors. If they ask for records, respond as quickly as you can — delays in getting medical evidence can slow down your case. You can also contact your doctors' offices yourself and ask them to send records to Social Security; the address will be in any letter Social Security sends you.

The Wisconsin Division of Disability information will mail you a decision letter. If you are approved, the letter explains when your benefits start and how much you will receive each month. If you are denied, the letter explains why and tells you how to request reconsideration or appeal.

Understanding the decision and what to do if you are denied

A denial does not mean you cannot receive benefits — it means the Wisconsin Division of Disability information decided your condition does not meet Social Security's definition of disability at that moment. You have the right to challenge the decision through a formal appeal process.

Your first option is reconsideration, which means a different reviewer looks at your case from the start. You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to request reconsideration. You can submit new medical evidence, updated work history, or additional information about how your condition affects you. Reconsideration takes another 3 to 5 months.

If reconsideration is also denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. This is a formal process where you can present evidence and testify about your condition. Many people hire a disability lawyer at this stage — lawyers work on contingency, meaning they take a percentage of your back pay if you win, and they do not charge you upfront. The hearing usually happens 6 to 12 months after you request it.

Getting help with your process

If you need help understanding the process or filling out your process, several organizations in Wisconsin offer free support. Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Disabilities (PAID Wisconsin) provides information and guidance about disability benefits. Community Action Agencies across Wisconsin also help people understand their options. You can find a local agency through the Wisconsin Community Action Partnership.

If you decide to appeal a denial, you can hire a disability lawyer or a non-lawyer representative called a "representative payee advocate." Both can help you gather evidence, prepare for a hearing, and present your case. Social Security maintains a list of approved representatives on ssa.gov — search "find a representative" to see who works in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work while my process is being reviewed?

Yes. You can work and earn money while Social Security reviews your case. However, if you earn more than $1,550 per month (in 2024), Social Security may decide you are able to work and deny your process. The amount changes each year, so ask Social Security what the current limit is when you explore.

How long does it take to hear back after I submit my process?

Most decisions come within 3 to 5 months, but some cases take longer. If your medical records are hard to get or your condition is complex, it may take 6 months or more. You can call Social Security to check on your case status after 30 days.

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

You do not need to have them before you submit. Give Social Security the names and addresses of your doctors, and they will request the records for you. Responding quickly when they ask for records helps move your case along.

Do I need a lawyer to explore?

No. You can explore on your own and many people do. A lawyer is most useful if your process is denied and you decide to appeal. At that stage, a lawyer can help you gather evidence and prepare for a hearing.

What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?

SSDI is based on your work history — you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is based on financial need and is available to people with low income and few assets, regardless of work history. Social Security will determine which program you may be may be able to access for based on your answers during the process.