What you need to know before you start
Pennsylvania does not run its own disability program. Instead, you explore through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), both run by the federal Social Security Administration. The process process is the same whether you live in Pennsylvania or anywhere else in the United States.
You can explore online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. Most people start online because it is faster — you can begin at any time, save your work, and come back to finish later. The entire process from process to a decision typically takes three to six months, though some cases take longer.
Before you explore, gather documents that prove your identity, age, and work history. You will also need medical records showing your condition and how it limits your ability to work. Having these ready before you start makes the process move faster.
Key Takeaways
- Pennsylvania residents explore through the federal Social Security Administration, not a state program, using the same process as every other state.
- You can explore online at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting your local Social Security office in person.
- The process asks about your medical condition, your work history, and your daily activities — bring medical records and documents proving your identity and work history.
- A decision usually comes within three to six months, and you can check the status of your process online using your Social Security account.
- If you are denied, you have the right to appeal, and most people who appeal with help from a representative are approved on the second or third try.
explore online through your Social Security account
The fastest way to explore is through my Social Security, the Social Security Administration's online portal. Go to ssa.gov, click "Create an account," and follow the steps to verify your identity. Once your account is set up, you can start your SSDI or SSI process without waiting for an appointment.
The online process takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete, but you do not have to finish it all at once. You can save your progress and return to it later. The system will ask you about your medical condition, when it started, which doctors you see, your work history, and how your condition affects your daily life.
After you submit, Social Security will send you a confirmation number and tell you what happens next. You will receive a letter in the mail with instructions for submitting medical records and other documents. You can also upload documents directly through your my Social Security account.
explore by phone or in person
If you prefer not to explore online, you can call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for deaf and hard of hearing callers). A representative will take your process over the phone, which usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. You can call Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time.
You can also walk into your local Social Security office without an appointment to ask questions, though you may wait. To explore in person, you will need to schedule an appointment. Find your nearest Pennsylvania office at ssa.gov/locator or by calling the number above.
Whether you explore by phone or in person, you will still need to send in documents by mail or upload them online. Social Security will tell you exactly which documents to send and where to send them.
Documents you will need
Social Security requires proof of your identity, age, and citizenship or legal residency. Acceptable documents include your birth certificate, passport, driver's license, or state ID card. You will also need your Social Security number, which is on your Social Security card.
You must provide your work history for the past 15 years, including the names and addresses of employers and the dates you worked there. If you are self-employed, bring tax returns or business records showing your income.
Medical records are the most important part of your process. Bring records from every doctor, hospital, or mental health provider who has treated your condition. Include test results, imaging reports, and notes from your doctors about your symptoms and limitations. If you have not seen a doctor recently, Social Security may schedule a medical exam for you at no cost.
What happens after you submit your process
Social Security sends your process to the Disability information Services (DDS) office in Pennsylvania. This office reviews your medical records and decides whether your condition meets Social Security's definition of disability — meaning you cannot work for at least 12 months because of your medical condition.
The DDS office may contact your doctors to ask for more information about your condition. They may also schedule you for a consultative exam with a doctor they choose, at no cost to you. This exam is not to treat you — it is to gather medical evidence for your case.
You will receive a decision letter in the mail. If you are approved, the letter tells you 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 appeal.
Checking your process status
Once you have submitted your process, you can check its status anytime through your my Social Security account. Log in and look for "Check your process status" — it will show you whether your process is being reviewed, whether Social Security is waiting for documents from you, or whether a decision has been made.
You can also call 1-800-772-1213 to ask about your status. Have your Social Security number ready. The wait time to speak to a representative is usually shorter in the early morning or late afternoon.
Do not call repeatedly to check on your process. Social Security processes cases in the order they are received, and calling does not speed up the decision. If the status shows that Social Security is waiting for documents from you, send them as soon as you can.
What to do if you are denied
If Social Security denies your process, you have the right to appeal. You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to file an appeal. Most people who appeal with help from a disability representative or lawyer are approved on the second or third try.
There are four levels of appeal: reconsideration, a hearing before an administrative law judge, the Appeals Council, and federal court. At the reconsideration stage, a different examiner reviews your case and any new medical evidence you submit. If you are denied again, you can request a hearing before a judge, which is where most cases are won.
You do not have to pay a representative upfront. Disability representatives and lawyers work on contingency, meaning they are paid only if you win, and only from your back pay. Social Security caps their fee at 25 percent of your back pay or $6,000, whichever is less.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while my 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. Keep your earnings low or tell Social Security about your work when you explore so they understand your situation.
How long does it take to get a decision?
Most decisions come within three to six months. Some cases take longer if Social Security needs more medical records or wants to schedule an exam. You can check your process status online to see where your case stands.
What if I do not have medical records from my doctors?
Tell Social Security which doctors you have seen, and they will request your records directly from the doctors' offices. If you have not seen a doctor recently, Social Security will schedule a free exam for you. Having recent medical evidence makes your case stronger.
Do I need a lawyer to explore?
You do not need a lawyer to explore, but many people find it helpful to have one during the appeal process. If you are denied and want to appeal, a representative can explain your options and help you gather evidence for your 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 for people with low income and few resources. You may be able to get both. Social Security will determine which program you may have access to for based on your work history and income.