The Basic Path to explore in Illinois
You explore for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) through Social Security itself, not through the state of Illinois. The state does not run its own disability program. You can start your process online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting a Social Security office in person. Illinois has Social Security field offices in most cities; you can find the one nearest you on the Social Security website.
The process asks for your medical records, work history, and personal information. Social Security then sends your case to the Illinois Disability information Services (DDS), which is a state agency that works under contract with Social Security. DDS reviews your medical evidence and makes the decision about whether you meet Social Security's definition of disability. This process usually takes three to five months, though it can take longer if Social Security needs more medical records from your doctors.
You do not need a lawyer to explore, but many people hire one after a denial. If you are denied and want to appeal, a lawyer can help you gather stronger medical evidence and prepare for a hearing before a judge.
Key Takeaways
- You explore directly to Social Security online, by phone, or at a local field office—not to any Illinois state agency.
- Illinois Disability information Services reviews your medical records and makes the disability decision on behalf of Social Security.
- The process requires medical records from your doctors, so gather those before you start and give Social Security permission to request them directly.
- The process typically takes three to five months, and you can check the status of your case online or by calling Social Security.
- If you are denied, you have the right to appeal, and many people hire a lawyer at the appeal stage to strengthen their case.
What Documents You Need Before You Start
Gather these documents before you begin your process. You will need your Social Security number, birth certificate, and proof of citizenship or legal residency (a passport, naturalization papers, or a green card). You also need your driver's license or state ID.
Bring information about your medical conditions and the doctors or hospitals that have treated you. Write down the names, addresses, and phone numbers of every doctor, specialist, therapist, or clinic you have seen in the past year or two. Social Security will ask you to sign a form that lets them request your medical records directly from these providers, which is faster than you gathering them yourself.
Have your work history ready: the names of employers, the dates you worked, and the type of work you did. If you are self-employed, bring tax returns from the past two years. Social Security also asks about any work you do now, even if it is part-time or unpaid.
explore Online, by Phone, or In Person
Online is usually the fastest option. Go to ssa.gov and look for "explore for Disability." The online form takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You can save your progress and come back to it later. When you finish, Social Security sends you a confirmation number. You will receive a letter in the mail within two weeks confirming that your process was received.
By phone, call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. Wait times are usually shorter early in the morning. A representative will ask you the same questions as the online form. You do not need to have documents in front of you—Social Security will request them from your doctors after you hang up.
In person at a Social Security field office in Illinois. You can find the office nearest you on ssa.gov or by calling the number above. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait several hours. Calling ahead to make an appointment is faster. Bring the documents listed above, though Social Security can still request medical records from your doctors even if you do not have copies with you.
What Happens After You Submit Your process
Social Security sends your case to the Illinois Disability information Services office in Springfield. DDS is the state agency that reviews the medical evidence and decides whether you meet Social Security's definition of disability. This review usually takes 30 to 60 days, though it can take longer if DDS needs to request additional records from your doctors or send you for a medical exam.
You can check the status of your case online at ssa.gov using your personal my Social Security account, or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Social Security will also send you letters in the mail telling you what they need from you. If they ask for more information, respond quickly—delays in sending documents can slow down the whole process.
If DDS approves your case, you will receive a letter saying so. SSDI benefits usually start the month after you are approved. SSI benefits may start sooner depending on when you applied. If DDS denies your case, you will receive a letter explaining the reason and telling you how to appeal.
Understanding SSDI and SSI in Illinois
Social Security offers two disability programs, and which one you may be found for depends on your work history and income. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is based on your own work record or your parent's work record if you became disabled before age 22. You do not have to be poor to receive SSDI. If you are approved, you also become covered by Medicare after two years.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is a needs-based program for people with low income and few assets. You can have no more than $2,000 in countable resources (the limit is $3,000 if you are married). SSI pays a monthly amount set by Social Security; in 2024 the federal rate is $943 per month for an individual, though Illinois may add a state supplement. You become covered by Medicaid when ready when you are approved for SSI.
Some people are found for both SSDI and SSI at the same time. Social Security will tell you which program or programs you are found for when they approve your case.
If Your process Is Denied
About 65 to 70 percent of first-time applications are denied. A denial does not mean you cannot receive benefits—it means Social Security did not find enough medical evidence that your condition meets their definition of disability. You have the right to appeal.
You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to file an appeal. The first step is called reconsideration. You submit new or stronger medical evidence showing why you should be found for disability. Many people hire a lawyer at this stage because a lawyer can help you gather medical records that directly address Social Security's reasons for the denial.
If reconsideration is also denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. This is where many cases are won. A judge reviews your medical records and may ask you questions about your condition and how it affects your ability to work. You can bring a lawyer or representative to the hearing. The judge's decision usually comes within 30 to 60 days after the hearing.
Finding a Lawyer or Representative in Illinois
You can hire a lawyer or non-lawyer representative to help you with your case. They can represent you at any stage—even at the initial process, though most people wait until after a denial. A representative can request your medical records, help you gather evidence, and represent you at a hearing.
Social Security regulates what representatives can charge. They can take a fee only if you win your case, and the fee is limited to 25 percent of your back pay (the money owed from the date you became disabled to the date you were approved), up to a maximum of $7,200. The representative must get Social Security's approval of the fee before they collect it.
To find a lawyer, contact the Illinois State Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Service or search for disability lawyers in your area. Many offer free initial consultations. You can also find non-lawyer representatives through disability advocacy organizations in Illinois.
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 are explore for SSDI, Social Security looks at your work history to decide if you worked enough to be insured for benefits. If you are explore for SSI, your income and resources affect whether you are found for the program. Tell Social Security about any work you do—do not hide it.
How long does it take to hear back after I explore?
The initial review usually takes three to five months. Some cases take longer if Social Security needs more medical records or wants to send you for a medical exam. You can check your case status online or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Do I need medical records from my doctors to explore?
You do not need to have copies of your records when you explore, but you should tell Social Security the names and addresses of your doctors. Sign the form Social Security sends you that lets them request records directly. Having recent medical records from the past year or two strengthens your case.
What if I do not have a doctor?
If you have not seen a doctor recently, Social Security may send you to a doctor they choose and pay for the exam. This is called a consultative exam. The doctor will examine you and write a report for Social Security. You do not pay for this exam.
Can I appeal if I am denied?
Yes. You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to file for reconsideration. If that is denied, you can request a hearing before a judge. Many people win at the hearing stage, especially with help from a lawyer or representative.