Where to Start: The Social Security Administration, Not the State

Florida does not run its own disability program. You explore for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) through the federal Social Security Administration, the same way you would in any other state. The Social Security office processes your claim, makes the medical decision, and pays the benefit if you are found disabled.

Florida does run a separate program called Florida Disability information Services (DDS), but that is not where you explore. DDS is the state agency that reviews your medical evidence on behalf of Social Security. You never contact them directly—Social Security sends your file to them after you file your claim.

The practical difference: you walk into a Social Security office in Florida (or call, or explore online), Social Security takes your process, and then Social Security contracts with Florida DDS to examine your medical records and decide whether you meet the federal definition of disability.

Key Takeaways

  • You explore through the Social Security Administration online, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office—not through any Florida state agency.
  • Florida Disability information Services reviews your medical evidence but does not take applications; Social Security sends your file to them after you file.
  • You can start your process at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting a Social Security field office in your county.
  • The decision process typically takes three to six months, and you will receive written notice of approval or denial by mail.
  • If denied, you have the right to appeal, and most people who appeal with new medical evidence or legal representation are reconsidered.

explore Online Through ssa.gov

The fastest route for most people is to start your process at ssa.gov/applyfordisability. You create a my Social Security account, answer questions about your work history and medical condition, and upload documents. The form takes 15 to 20 minutes if you have your information ready.

You will need your Social Security number, birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency, medical records or the names and addresses of doctors who have treated you, and a list of jobs you have held in the past 15 years. You do not need to upload everything at once—you can submit the process and mail or upload documents later.

After you submit, Social Security sends you a confirmation number and schedules a phone call with a claims representative, usually within two weeks. That representative asks follow-up questions about your disability, work history, and living situation. You can take that call from home.

explore by Phone or In Person in Florida

If you do not have internet access or prefer to speak with someone, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Representatives answer Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. Wait times are shortest early in the morning or late in the week.

You can also walk into any Social Security field office in Florida. Use the office locator at ssa.gov/locator to find the one nearest you by county. Bring your Social Security card, birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and a list of your medical providers. You do not need an appointment, but you may wait 30 minutes to two hours depending on the time of day.

Whether you call or visit in person, the representative takes your process over the phone or in the office and asks the same questions as the online form. You still need to provide medical records and work history, which you can mail in, upload to your my Social Security account, or bring to the office.

What Happens After You File: The Medical Review in Florida

After Social Security receives your process, they send your file to Florida Disability information Services in Tallahassee. DDS has a team of doctors and disability examiners who review your medical records to decide whether you meet the Social Security definition of disability: you cannot work because of a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

DDS may request additional medical records from your doctors, or they may schedule you for a consultative examination (a free medical exam paid for by Social Security). If DDS needs more information, they contact you by mail or phone. You are not required to attend an exam, but refusing one can result in a denial.

The review takes two to four months on average. When DDS finishes, they send their decision to Social Security, and Social Security mails you a written notice. The notice says whether you are approved, denied, or approved for a different month than you requested.

Documents You Will Need to Gather

Start collecting these before you explore, because having them ready speeds up the process:

  • Proof of identity and citizenship: Your Social Security card, birth certificate, and a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID). If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your green card or visa.
  • Medical records: Names, addresses, and phone numbers of all doctors, hospitals, and mental health providers who have treated you in the past three to five years. Bring any recent test results, imaging reports, or hospital discharge summaries if you have them.
  • Work history: A list of jobs you have held in the past 15 years, including the job title, employer name, dates you worked, and what you did. If you are self-employed, bring tax returns for the past two years.
  • Financial information (for SSI only): If you are explore for SSI rather than SSDI, bring bank statements, proof of rent or mortgage, and information about any other income or resources you own.

Timeline and What to Expect After Approval

From the day you file to the day you receive your first check, the process usually takes four to eight months. The exact timeline depends on how quickly you provide medical records and how complex your case is. If you have recent, detailed medical evidence, the process moves faster.

If you are approved, Social Security mails you a notice that states your monthly benefit amount and your start date. For SSDI, benefits usually begin the month after you are found disabled. For SSI, benefits can start the month you file if you meet the financial limits.

After approval, you receive a Medicare card (for SSDI) or Medicaid card (for SSI, depending on your state income level) in the mail. You are required to report any changes in your work, living situation, or income to Social Security within 10 days, or you risk overpayment.

If You Are Denied: Your Right to Appeal

About 65 percent of first applications are denied. A denial does not mean you cannot receive benefits—it means DDS decided your medical condition does not meet the federal definition of disability at that time. You have the right to appeal.

You have 60 days from the date on your denial notice to file an appeal. There are four levels: reconsideration (DDS reviews the file again with new evidence), hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, Appeals Council review, and federal court. Most people who appeal with additional medical records or with a lawyer are reconsidered and approved.

To appeal, contact your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213. You do not need a lawyer to appeal, but many people hire one at the hearing stage because the approval rate jumps significantly with legal representation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore for disability while I am still working in Florida?

Yes. You can work and earn up to $1,550 per month (in 2024) and still be considered disabled for SSDI purposes. Social Security looks at whether you can do any substantial work, not whether you are currently working. If you earn more than that amount, you may not be found disabled, but you can still explore.

How long does it take to hear back after I explore in Florida?

The initial decision usually takes two to four months after you file. If Florida DDS needs medical records from your doctors or wants to schedule an exam, it can take longer. You will receive a written notice in the mail when a decision is made.

Do I need a lawyer to explore for disability in Florida?

No. You can explore on your own and many people are approved without a lawyer. However, if you are denied and appeal to a hearing, hiring a lawyer increases your chances of approval. Lawyers are paid only if you win, and they take a percentage of your back pay.

What is the difference between SSDI and SSI in Florida?

SSDI is based on your work history—you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is based on financial need and is available to people who have not worked enough. In Florida, SSI recipients also receive Medicaid. Both are federal programs, not state programs.

Can I explore for disability online if I do not have a computer?

Yes. You can call 1-800-772-1213 or visit a Social Security field office in your county to explore by phone or in person. You do not need to use the online form, though it is usually the fastest option.