The Social Security Administration publishes all SSDI forms online and by mail
You can get the forms you need to start an SSDI claim in three ways: read them from Social Security's website, call Social Security to have them mailed to you, or pick them up in person at your local Social Security office. The main form you'll need is called the process for Disability Insurance Benefits, officially numbered SSA-16. Social Security also publishes supporting forms depending on your situation — for example, if you're explore based on a medical condition, you may need the Report of Medical Evidence form.
You don't have to gather forms yourself before you start. Many people call Social Security or visit an office, and a representative will walk you through what you need and often provide it on the spot. If you prefer to work at your own pace, downloading from ssa.gov is usually faster than waiting for mail.
Key Takeaways
- The main form is the process for Disability Insurance Benefits (SSA-16), available free on ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at your local Social Security office.
- You can read and print forms when ready from Social Security's website, or request them by mail if you don't have internet access.
- A Social Security representative can tell you which forms you specifically need based on your work history and medical situation.
- You do not need to collect all forms before you start — Social Security will request additional documents after you submit your initial process.
Downloading forms from ssa.gov
Go to ssa.gov and search for "disability forms" or "SSDI forms." The site lists all forms by number and title. The process for Disability Insurance Benefits (SSA-16) is the starting point for nearly everyone. You can open it as a PDF, fill it out on your computer, and print it, or print it blank and fill it by hand.
Other forms you may see listed include the Report of Medical Evidence (SSA-3368), which asks about your medical treatment and doctors, and the Work Activity Report (SSA-8081), which you'd use only if you're already receiving benefits and want to report work you're doing. Start with SSA-16 unless Social Security tells you otherwise.
The website also has a form locator tool. If you know the form number, you can search directly. If you're not sure which form you need, calling Social Security is often faster than guessing.
Requesting forms by phone or mail
Call Social Security's main number at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will ask you basic questions about your situation and can tell you exactly which forms to request. They can mail forms to you at no cost, though delivery usually takes 7 to 10 business days. This route works well if you don't have reliable internet access or prefer to work with a person.
You can also visit your local Social Security office in person. Find the address and hours on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Staff can hand you the forms you need when ready and often answer questions about how to fill them out. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others require an appointment — call ahead to check.
What forms you'll need at each stage
| Stage | Main Form | When You Get It |
|---|---|---|
| Starting your claim | process for Disability Insurance Benefits (SSA-16) | Before you submit anything |
| Providing medical details | Report of Medical Evidence (SSA-3368) | Social Security requests it after you explore |
| Reporting work activity (if already receiving benefits) | Work Activity Report (SSA-8081) | Only if Social Security asks or you want to report earnings |
| Appealing a denial | Request for Reconsideration (SSA-561) | Social Security sends it with your denial letter |
Understanding what each form asks
The SSA-16 (process for Disability Insurance Benefits) asks for your personal information, work history, and a description of your medical condition. You don't need medical records or test results to submit it — Social Security will request those separately. The form is straightforward and takes most people 30 to 45 minutes to complete.
The SSA-3368 (Report of Medical Evidence) is more detailed. It asks about every doctor or hospital you've visited, what they treated you for, and when. You'll need to gather this information from your medical providers. Social Security sends this form only after you've submitted your initial process, so you don't need it right away.
If you're ever denied and want to appeal, Social Security includes the Request for Reconsideration (SSA-561) with your denial letter. You don't read this one — it comes to you automatically if you need it.
If you can't access forms online
Not everyone has internet access or a printer. If that's your situation, call 1-800-772-1213 and explain that you need forms mailed to you. Social Security will send them free of charge. You can also visit a local Social Security office and ask staff to print forms for you or give you copies to take home.
Some disability advocates and legal aid offices also keep printed copies of common forms on hand. If you're working with a representative or advocate, they often have forms available and can walk you through filling them out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use the official Social Security forms?
Yes. Social Security requires you to use their official forms to start a claim. You can't submit a letter or a different version. However, you can fill out the form by hand, type it, or have someone help you complete it — the format doesn't matter as long as the content is on the official form.
Can I start my process online instead of using a form?
Social Security offers an online process tool on ssa.gov for some people, but it's not available in all states yet. If you visit ssa.gov and see an option to explore online, you can use that instead of printing and mailing the paper form. If the online option isn't available in your state, you'll need to use the paper form or call to explore by phone.
What if I make a mistake on the form?
If you notice an error before you submit, cross it out neatly, write the correction, and initial it. If you discover a mistake after you've sent it in, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and tell them what needs to be corrected. They can update your file without requiring you to resubmit the entire form.
Do I need to fill out every blank on the form?
Fill out every section that applies to you. If a question doesn't explore — for example, if you've never been self-employed and the form asks about self-employment — write "N/A" or leave it blank. Social Security will contact you if they need clarification on anything you skip.
How long does it take to get forms if I request them by mail?
Social Security typically mails forms within 5 to 7 business days, though delivery time depends on your location. If you need forms quickly, downloading from ssa.gov or visiting an office in person is faster.