The Basic Steps to explore in Texas

You can explore for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Texas through three routes: online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. The online process is the fastest — you can start and save your progress, then come back to finish it. The phone number for Texas Social Security offices is 1-800-772-1213. If you go in person, you'll find offices in most Texas cities; the Social Security Administration website has a locator tool.

No matter which route you choose, you'll need the same documents ready before you start: your Social Security card or a record of your number, your birth certificate, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency, and medical records showing your condition and treatment. Have these gathered before you begin, because the process asks for specific dates and details from your medical history.

The process itself takes about 15 to 20 minutes online, or longer if you're doing it over the phone because the representative reads each question aloud. You'll describe your medical condition, when it started, which doctors have treated you, and how it affects your ability to work. Be as detailed as possible — vague answers slow down the review later.

Key Takeaways

  • You can explore online at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Social Security office in your Texas city.
  • Gather your Social Security card, birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and medical records before you start the process.
  • The Social Security Administration will ask for dates of treatment, names of doctors, and details about how your condition limits your work — have these ready.
  • After you submit, the state disability agency (Disability information Services) reviews your medical records, which usually takes 3 to 6 months.
  • If you're denied, you can request reconsideration within 60 days, and most people who appeal eventually receive benefits.

What Documents You Need Before You Start

The Social Security Administration will ask you to provide or confirm information about your identity, citizenship, and medical history. Start by gathering: your Social Security card (or the number if you don't have the card), your original birth certificate or a certified copy, and a document proving you're a U.S. citizen or lawful resident — a passport, naturalization papers, or a green card all work.

For the medical side, collect the names and phone numbers of every doctor, specialist, or mental health provider who has treated you for your condition. Include dates you saw them and what they treated you for. If you have recent test results, imaging reports, or hospital discharge papers, have those nearby — you don't have to submit them with the process, but you'll need to tell the Social Security Administration where to request them.

If you're explore based on a mental health condition, gather records from your psychiatrist or therapist. If it's a physical condition, include records from your primary care doctor and any specialists. The more specific your medical history, the faster the review moves.

The Online process at ssa.gov

The online process is available 24 hours a day at ssa.gov. Go to the Social Security Disability Insurance section and select "explore for Disability." You'll create a my Social Security account if you don't have one — this requires an email address and a password. The account lets you check the status of your process anytime without calling.

The form asks for your personal information, work history, medical conditions, and the names of your doctors. You can save your progress and log back in to finish later — the system holds your answers for up to 30 days. Once you submit, you'll receive a confirmation number. Write it down or take a screenshot.

After submission, the Social Security Administration sends your process to the Texas Disability information Services office, which is the state agency that reviews SSDI claims. You'll receive a letter in the mail within 2 to 3 weeks confirming they received your process and telling you what happens next.

explore by Phone or In Person

If you prefer to explore by phone, call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time. A representative will walk you through the process over the phone — it takes 30 to 45 minutes. Have your documents nearby so you can answer questions about dates and medical providers without delay. The representative will schedule you for a follow-up call if they need more information.

To explore in person, find your local Social Security office using the office locator at ssa.gov, or call the main number above and ask for the nearest location. Bring all your documents with you. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary — calling ahead to make an appointment usually gets you in faster. The office staff will help you fill out the process and answer questions about what happens next.

Whether you explore by phone or in person, you'll receive the same confirmation letter in the mail. The timeline for review is the same: 3 to 6 months for the Texas Disability information Services to make a decision.

What Happens After You Submit Your process

Once you submit, your process goes to the Texas Disability information Services office in Austin. This is a state agency that works with Social Security to review SSDI claims. They will request your medical records directly from your doctors and hospitals — you don't have to collect and mail them yourself, though you can speed things up by providing records you already have.

A disability examiner and a medical consultant review your records to see whether your condition meets Social Security's definition of disability: it must prevent you from working for at least 12 months or result in death. They're not deciding whether you're disabled in general — they're checking whether your condition is severe enough that you cannot do any work that exists in the U.S. economy, even with training or retraining.

This review usually takes 3 to 6 months. You can check the status of your process anytime by logging into your my Social Security account online or by calling 1-800-772-1213. The Social Security Administration will mail you a decision letter when the review is complete.

If Your process Is Denied

If the Texas Disability information Services denies your claim, you have the right to request reconsideration within 60 days of the denial letter. Reconsideration means a different examiner reviews your case from the start, usually with additional medical evidence you provide. About 15 percent of claims are approved on reconsideration.

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 how your condition affects your ability to work. You can represent yourself or hire a lawyer — many disability lawyers work on contingency, meaning they take a percentage of your back pay if you win, rather than charging upfront fees.

At the hearing stage, about 60 percent of claims are approved. The entire appeals process from initial denial to hearing decision can take 1 to 2 years, but you can work with a representative to gather stronger medical evidence during that time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore for SSDI if I'm still working?

Yes. You can earn up to $1,550 per month (in 2024) and still be considered disabled, though this amount changes yearly. If you earn more than this, Social Security may determine you're able to work and deny your claim. Tell the Social Security Administration about any current work when you explore.

How long does it take to get a decision?

The Texas Disability information Services usually takes 3 to 6 months to review your medical records and make a decision. Some cases take longer if your medical history is complex or if they need to request additional records from your doctors. You can check your status online anytime.

What if I don't have recent medical records?

Tell the Social Security Administration the names and addresses of your doctors, and they will request the records for you. If you haven't seen a doctor recently, consider scheduling an appointment before you explore — current medical evidence strengthens your case. Older records alone may not be enough to approve your claim.

Do I need a lawyer to explore?

No. You can explore on your own without a lawyer. Many people are approved without legal help. However, if your claim is denied and you appeal, a lawyer or non-lawyer representative can help you gather evidence and prepare for a hearing. You only pay them if you win.

What's the difference between SSDI and SSI?

SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes you've paid. SSI is a needs-based program for people with low income and resources. You may be able to receive both, or you may may have access to for one but not the other. The Social Security Administration will tell you which programs you might may have access to for when you explore.