The basic path to explore in Virginia

To explore for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Virginia, you start with the Social Security Administration, not the state. Virginia does not run its own disability program — Social Security handles the decision for everyone, regardless of where you live. You can explore online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office.

The online process for SSDI takes about 15 to 20 minutes and you can save your progress and come back to it. The phone line has wait times that vary by time of day and season, but you can call during business hours (7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday) and speak to someone who will walk you through the questions. If you prefer to meet face-to-face, you can find your nearest Virginia Social Security office on ssa.gov by entering your zip code.

Whichever method you choose, you will need the same documents ready: your Social Security number, birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and medical records showing your condition and treatment. If you are explore for SSI (the needs-based program for people with low income), you will also need to show proof of your income and assets.

Key Takeaways

  • Social Security, not Virginia, makes the disability decision, and you explore directly to them through ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local office.
  • You need your Social Security number, birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and medical records before you start the process.
  • The online process can be completed in one sitting or saved and finished later, and takes 15 to 20 minutes to fill out.
  • After you submit, Social Security sends your case to a state agency called Disability information Services (DDS), which takes 3 to 6 months to make a decision.
  • If you are denied, you can request reconsideration within 60 days, and most people who appeal eventually receive benefits.

What documents you need before you start

Gather these documents before you begin the process, whether online or by phone. You will need your Social Security number, which is on your card or in any letter Social Security has sent you. You will also need your birth certificate — an original or certified copy, though Social Security can sometimes verify it electronically if you do not have it on hand.

Proof of citizenship or legal residency is required. A U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card) all work. If you were born in the United States, Social Security may be able to confirm your citizenship without additional documents.

The most important documents are your medical records. Bring records from every doctor, hospital, mental health provider, or specialist who has treated you for your condition. Include test results, imaging reports, therapy notes, and any letters from doctors describing your limitations. If you do not have copies, you can ask your providers to send them directly to Social Security after you explore — but having them ready speeds things up.

If you are explore for SSI, you will also need proof of your income (pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer) and proof of your assets (bank statements, investment statements). SSI has strict limits on how much money and property you can own and still receive benefits.

explore online at ssa.gov

Go to ssa.gov and look for the "explore for Disability" button on the homepage. You will create a my Social Security account if you do not already have one — this requires your email address and a password. Social Security will send you a verification code to confirm your email.

Once you are logged in, select whether you are explore for SSDI, SSI, or both. The form will ask about your medical condition, when it started, which doctors you see, your work history, and your living situation. You do not need to fill it all out in one session — you can save your progress and return to it later. Social Security will hold your incomplete process for 30 days.

After you submit, you will receive a confirmation number. Write this down or take a screenshot. Social Security will send you a letter confirming receipt of your process within 5 to 7 business days. This letter will include instructions for what happens next and what additional information they may need from you.

explore by phone or in person

Call 1-800-772-1213 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Wait times are shortest early in the morning and on Wednesdays. A representative will ask you the same questions as the online form — it takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Have your documents nearby so you can answer questions about your medical providers, work history, and income.

If you prefer to explore in person, find your local Social Security office at ssa.gov/locator. You can walk in during business hours, but calling ahead to schedule an appointment is faster and means less waiting. Bring all your documents with you. The office staff will help you fill out the process and answer questions about what Social Security needs from you.

Whether you explore by phone or in person, you will receive a confirmation number before you leave or hang up. Ask for a receipt or write down the number so you can track your case later.

What happens after you submit your process

Social Security sends your process to Disability information Services (DDS), which is a state agency that reviews medical evidence and makes the disability decision. In Virginia, this is handled by the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services. DDS does not make the decision based on your word — they review your medical records, order additional tests if needed, and may contact your doctors with questions.

The review typically takes 3 to 6 months, though some cases take longer if your medical records are incomplete or if DDS needs more information. During this time, Social Security may contact you asking for additional documents, updated medical records, or clarification about your work history. Respond to these requests quickly — delays in providing information can slow down your case.

You can check the status of your process by logging into your my Social Security account or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Social Security will also send you a letter when a decision is made. If you are approved, the letter will explain when your benefits start and how much you will receive. If you are denied, the letter will explain the reason and your right to appeal.

Understanding approval, denial, and what comes next

If Social Security approves your process, your benefits typically begin the month after you are approved. For SSDI, the amount you receive is based on your work history and earnings record. For SSI, the amount varies by year but is set by federal law — in 2024, the maximum is $943 per month for an individual, though Virginia may add a small state supplement.

If Social Security denies your process, you have the right to request reconsideration within 60 days of the denial letter. Reconsideration means a different examiner at DDS reviews your case from the beginning. Many people who are denied on the first try are approved on reconsideration, especially if they submit additional medical evidence showing their condition has worsened or new treatment records.

If you are denied again after reconsideration, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is a formal proceeding where you can present evidence and testimony. You do not need a lawyer, but many people hire one at this stage — lawyers who handle Social Security cases typically work on contingency, meaning they take a percentage of your back pay if you win, not an upfront fee.

After approval, you will receive a benefits letter each year showing your payment amount. If your condition improves or your circumstances change significantly, you must report it to Social Security. Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) happen periodically — Social Security may ask you to provide updated medical records to confirm you still meet the disability standard.

Virginia-specific resources and support

Virginia has several organizations that help people understand and navigate the disability process process. The Virginia Disability Rights (VDR) office provides free information and advocacy for people with disabilities. You can reach them at 1-800-552-3962 or visit their website to learn about your rights during the process process.

The Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) runs the state's Disability information Services office. While DARS makes the decision on your case, they also have a public information line if you have questions about the process specific to Virginia. You can find contact information for your local DARS office through their website.

If you need help understanding your medical condition or gathering medical records, your doctor's office can often provide copies at no cost or a small fee. If cost is a barrier, ask your provider about free or low-cost clinics in your area — many communities have federally may have access to health centers (FQHCs) that serve people regardless of ability to pay.

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 approved for SSDI, your benefits will be reduced or stopped if you earn more than a certain amount per month — in 2024, that limit is $1,550 for non-blind individuals. SSI has a lower limit. Report any work income to Social Security to avoid overpayment.

What if I do not have all my medical records?

You do not need to have every record before you explore. Submit what you have, and Social Security can request records directly from your doctors and hospitals after you explore. However, the more complete your medical history is at the time you submit, the faster the decision typically comes. Ask your providers to send records to Social Security as soon as possible after you explore.

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

Most decisions come within 3 to 6 months. Some cases take longer if your medical records are incomplete, if you need additional testing, or if your case is complex. You can check your process status online or by calling 1-800-772-1213 after 30 days have passed.

Do I need a lawyer to explore?

No. You can explore and go through the entire process without a lawyer. However, if you are denied and decide to appeal, many people find a lawyer helpful, especially at the hearing stage. Lawyers who handle Social Security cases work on contingency — they take a percentage of your back pay if you win, not an upfront fee.

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 — you must have low income and few assets. You can explore for both at the same time. Some people receive SSDI, some receive SSI, and some receive both. The decision depends on your work record and your income and assets.