The First Step: Decide Which Program Fits Your Situation
Social Security runs two disability programs, and which one you start with depends on your work history. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes; Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with little or no work history, or very low income and resources right now. You cannot hold both at the same time, though you can switch from one to the other later if your circumstances change.
If you have worked in the past ten years, SSDI is almost certainly your path. If you have never worked, or stopped working more than ten years ago, SSI is what you would pursue. If you are unsure which applies to you, the Social Security Administration (SSA) can tell you during your first contact — you do not have to figure this out alone before you call.
Key Takeaways
- You can start your claim by phone, online, or in person at a local Social Security office, and the method you choose affects how quickly you hear back.
- You will need to provide your Social Security number, birth certificate, medical records, and work history, so gather these documents before you contact Social Security.
- The SSA assigns a claims examiner to your case who will contact you to ask detailed questions about your condition and your past work.
- From the day you submit your claim to a decision typically takes three to six months, though this varies by your state and the complexity of your medical evidence.
- You can start the process even if you do not have all your medical records yet — Social Security will request them directly from your doctors.
Three Ways to Start Your Claim
You have three options for submitting your initial claim: online through my Social Security, by phone to the SSA's national number, or in person at your local Social Security office. Each route leads to the same outcome, but the speed and convenience differ.
Online through my Social Security is the fastest if you have a computer and internet access. You create an account at ssa.gov, answer questions about your medical condition and work history, and submit your claim without waiting for an appointment. The SSA typically contacts you within five to seven business days. You can save your progress and come back to finish later if you need to gather more information.
By phone to 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) takes longer to reach someone — wait times are often 30 minutes to an hour — but a representative will walk you through the questions and answer them as you go. This method works well if you are unsure what information you need or if you have questions during the process. Call between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.
In person at your local Social Security office is an option if you prefer to speak face-to-face, though you will need to make an appointment first. Call the national number above or visit ssa.gov to find your nearest office and schedule a time. This route is useful if you have complex medical or work history that is hard to explain over the phone, or if you need help filling out forms.
Documents You Will Need to Gather
Social Security will ask for specific documents during your claim. You do not need to have all of them before you start — the SSA can request medical records directly from your doctors — but having them ready speeds up the process.
| Document Type | Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| Social Security number | Required to open your claim file. |
| Birth certificate | Proves your age and identity. |
| Medical records from your doctors | Shows your diagnosis, treatment, and how your condition limits your work. |
| List of medications you take | Part of your medical history. |
| Work history for the past 15 years | Used to calculate your benefit amount and to assess your past work capacity. |
| Pay stubs or tax returns (if self-employed) | Verifies your earnings and work history. |
| Bank statements (for SSI only) | Shows your current resources and income. |
If you do not have your medical records, contact your doctor's office and ask them to send copies to Social Security. Most offices charge a small fee (usually $10 to $25) or send them free if you request them in writing. You can also ask Social Security to request them on your behalf once your claim is open.
What Happens After You Submit Your Claim
Once you submit your claim, the SSA creates a file and assigns a claims examiner to review it. This person will contact you by phone within five to ten business days to ask detailed questions about your medical condition, your symptoms, how your condition affects your daily activities, and your work history.
Be prepared to describe your condition in detail: when it started, what doctors you see, what treatments you have tried, and how it stops you from working. The claims examiner is not a doctor and is not judging you — they are gathering information to send to a medical consultant (a doctor or psychologist employed by Social Security) who will review your case.
The examiner will also request your medical records directly from your doctors if you have not already provided them. This usually takes two to four weeks. During this time, you do not need to do anything — Social Security is collecting information on your behalf.
The Medical Review and Decision Timeline
After the examiner gathers your medical records and completes the interview, your case goes to a medical consultant who reviews everything to determine whether your condition meets Social Security's definition of disability. This step typically takes four to eight weeks.
The SSA will then mail you a decision letter. If you are approved, the letter will state your benefit amount and when payments begin. If you are denied, the letter will explain why and tell you how to request reconsideration — a second review of your case by a different examiner.
The entire process from submission to decision usually takes three to six months, though this varies by state and how complete your medical evidence is. Some cases move faster if your medical records are clear and recent; others take longer if Social Security needs to request additional information from your doctors.
What to Do While You Wait
Keep copies of everything you submit to Social Security. If you provide medical records, ask your doctor for a copy for your own files. If you speak to your claims examiner, write down the date, time, and what was discussed.
Continue seeing your doctors and following your treatment plan. Social Security looks at whether you are receiving ongoing medical care — gaps in treatment can weaken your case. If your condition changes or you start a new medication or therapy, tell your claims examiner as soon as possible.
Do not assume your case is lost if you have not heard anything for a few weeks. Social Security cases move slowly by design. If more than two weeks have passed since you submitted your claim and you have not been contacted, you can call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start my claim if I am still working?
Yes. You can work and file a claim at the same time. However, if you are earning more than $1,550 per month (the 2024 limit; this amount changes yearly), Social Security may assume you are able to work and deny your claim. If you are working but earning less than this amount, or if you plan to stop working soon, mention this to your claims examiner.
What if I do not have recent medical records?
Start your claim anyway. Social Security will request records from your doctors as part of the process. If you have not seen a doctor recently, consider scheduling an appointment before you file — current medical evidence strengthens your case. If you cannot afford a doctor visit, ask Social Security about low-cost clinics in your area.
Do I need a lawyer to start my claim?
No. You can start and complete your claim without a lawyer. Many people are approved on their first try without legal help. You can hire a lawyer later if your claim is denied and you want to appeal. Lawyers who handle Social Security cases work on contingency — they take a percentage of your back pay if you win, not an upfront fee.
What if I miss a important date or appointment with Social Security?
Contact Social Security when ready and explain why you missed it. Missing one appointment or important date does not automatically close your case, but repeated missed contact can result in dismissal. If you have a reason you cannot meet a important date — illness, transportation, family emergency — tell your claims examiner and ask for an extension.
Can I change my mind after I submit my claim?
Yes, you can withdraw your claim at any time before a decision is made by contacting Social Security in writing or by phone. If you have already received a decision and want to withdraw, you have 60 days to do so. After 60 days, you would need to file a new claim if you change your mind again.