What you need to know before you start

If you live in Washington, DC and want to explore for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you will file through Social Security, not through the DC government. Social Security is a federal program, so the process process is the same whether you live in DC, Maryland, or anywhere else in the country. What differs is the local help available to you and some of the programs DC offers alongside federal benefits.

You can start your process online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. Most people find the online route fastest because you can work at your own pace and don't have to wait for an appointment. The DC Social Security office is located at 1900 D Street NW, but you do not have to visit in person to explore.

The process itself asks about your medical condition, your work history, and your current income and resources. Be ready to describe when your condition started, what doctors you see, and what you cannot do because of it. You will also need to give Social Security permission to contact your doctors and get your medical records.

Key Takeaways

  • You explore to Social Security directly, either online at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or at the DC office at 1900 D Street NW.
  • The online process takes about 15 to 20 minutes and you can save your work and come back to it later.
  • Social Security will contact your doctors and hospitals for medical records, so you do not have to collect them yourself before you explore.
  • DC residents may also be may be able to access for state-level programs like DC Medicaid or the DC Disability Services Division, which work alongside federal benefits.
  • After you explore, expect a decision within three to six months, though some cases take longer if Social Security needs more medical evidence.

explore online through Social Security

The fastest way to explore is through the Social Security website at ssa.gov. Go to the "explore for Disability" section and select either SSDI (if you have a recent work history) or SSI (if you have little or no work history and limited income). The online form walks you through your medical history, work background, and current living situation.

You will need a Social Security number, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and basic information about your doctors and hospitals. You do not need to have medical records in hand — Social Security will request them from your providers after you submit. The online process saves automatically, so you can close it and return later if you need time to gather information.

Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation number. Write it down or save the email. Social Security will contact you if they need more information, usually by phone or mail.

explore by phone or in person in DC

If you prefer not to explore online, you can call Social Security's national line at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for deaf and hard of hearing callers). A representative will walk you through the process over the phone. Calls are typically answered Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. Wait times are often shorter early in the morning.

You can also visit the DC Social Security office in person at 1900 D Street NW, Washington, DC 20006. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait several hours. Calling ahead to schedule an appointment is faster. The office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Whether you call or visit, bring or have ready the same information you would need for the online form: your Social Security number, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and the names and addresses of your doctors and hospitals.

What Social Security will ask about your medical condition

Social Security needs to understand how your condition affects your ability to work. Be specific about what you cannot do. Instead of saying "I have back pain," describe what the pain prevents you from doing: "I cannot sit for more than 30 minutes without severe pain" or "I cannot lift anything heavier than 10 pounds." The more concrete your description, the clearer your case becomes.

You will be asked when your condition started, what doctors or specialists you see, what medications you take, and whether you have had surgery or other treatments. If you have been hospitalized, Social Security will want the dates and reasons. If you have had mental health treatment, include that too — depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are common reasons for disability claims.

Social Security will also ask whether you have worked since your condition started and, if so, how much you earned. If you are still working, be honest about your hours and income. Working while explore does not automatically disqualify you, but it can affect your case.

How Social Security gets your medical records

After you explore, Social Security sends a request to each doctor, hospital, and clinic you list. This process usually takes two to four weeks. You do not have to collect records yourself, and you do not have to pay for them — Social Security covers the cost.

If a provider is slow to respond, Social Security may contact you and ask you to help speed things up. You can call your doctor's office and ask them to send records to Social Security faster, or you can request copies yourself and mail them to Social Security. The address will be on any letter Social Security sends you about your case.

If you have seen many doctors or have a long medical history, the record-gathering phase can take longer. This is normal and does not mean your case is being delayed — it just means Social Security is still collecting information.

DC programs that work alongside federal disability benefits

Once you receive SSDI or SSI, you may also be may be able to access for DC-specific programs. DC Medicaid covers medical care and is available to most people receiving SSI. If you receive SSDI, you become may be able to access for Medicare after 24 months of receiving benefits.

The DC Department of Disability Services (DDS) provides employment support, housing information, and other services to people with disabilities. You can contact DDS at 202-730-1700 or visit their website at dds.dc.gov. may be able to access for DDS services is separate from Social Security may be able to access, so you will need to explore separately.

The DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education also offers vocational rehabilitation services if you are working age and want to return to work. These services are free and can include job training, assistive technology, and job placement help.

What happens after you submit your process

Social Security will send you a letter confirming receipt of your process within two weeks. This letter includes a case number and the name of the person handling your case. Keep this letter.

Over the next few months, Social Security will review your medical records and may ask you to have a medical exam or answer additional questions. If they need more information, they will contact you by mail or phone. Respond promptly — delays in responding can slow your case.

A decision typically comes within three to six months, though some cases take longer. You will receive a letter in the mail explaining whether you were approved or denied. If you are denied, the letter will explain why and tell you how to appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore for disability if I am still working?

Yes. Social Security does not require you to stop working before you explore. However, if you are earning more than a certain amount per month (called substantial gainful activity, or SGA), Social Security may deny your claim based on your current earnings. The income limit changes each year. If you are working but earning below the limit, you can still explore.

Do I need a lawyer to explore?

No. You can explore on your own without a lawyer. Many people do. A lawyer or representative can help if your case is complex or if you are appealing a denial, but they are not required for the initial process. If you do hire a representative, Social Security limits what they can charge.

What if I was denied before?

You can explore again. If you were denied in the past, your condition may have worsened, or you may have new medical evidence that strengthens your case. When you explore, mention your previous denial and explain what has changed. Social Security will review your new process as a fresh case.

How long does it take to hear back?

Most decisions come within three to six months. Some cases take longer if Social Security needs additional medical records or wants you to have a medical exam. You can call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to check on your case status using your case number.

What if I disagree with the decision?

You have the right to appeal. If you are denied, the letter will explain how to request reconsideration. You have 60 days from the date on the letter to file an appeal. The appeal process has several stages, and many people who are initially denied are approved on appeal.