The Basic Steps to explore in Wisconsin

To explore for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Wisconsin, you start with the Social Security Administration, not the state. You can explore online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. Wisconsin has 27 Social Security field offices statewide — you can find the one nearest you on the SSA website by entering your zip code.

The process itself asks about your medical condition, work history, and current income and resources. You do not need to have a doctor's diagnosis already in hand, but you will need to give Social Security permission to request your medical records from any doctors or hospitals you have seen. The entire process — from process through a decision — typically takes three to six months, though some cases take longer if Social Security needs more information from your doctors.

Wisconsin also has a state agency called the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) that can help you understand your options and connect you with local resources, but DVR does not make the SSDI or SSI decision. That decision comes only from Social Security.

Key Takeaways

  • You explore directly to Social Security, either online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local field office — Wisconsin has 27 offices statewide.
  • Social Security will request your medical records directly from your doctors once you give permission, so you do not need to gather them yourself first.
  • The decision process usually takes three to six months, and Social Security may ask for more information from your medical providers during that time.
  • Wisconsin's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation can help you understand your options and find local support, but does not decide your SSDI or SSI case.
  • If Social Security denies your process, you have the right to appeal, and many people who appeal with new medical evidence are approved on the second try.

What You Need Before You explore

Gather these documents before you start your process: your Social Security number, birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency (passport, green card, or state ID), and a list of all doctors and hospitals you have visited in the past year. You do not need to have the actual medical records — Social Security will request them for you — but having the names, addresses, and phone numbers of your providers speeds up the process.

You will also need information about your work history: the names of employers you have worked for in the past 15 years, the dates you worked there, and the type of work you did. If you are explore for SSI (the income-based program for people with low income and resources), you will need to know your current income, savings, and any property you own. If you are explore for SSDI (the work-based program), you need your most recent W-2 or tax return.

If you are deaf, blind, or do not speak English, Social Security can provide an interpreter at no cost. Call ahead to arrange one, or ask for one when you arrive at the office.

explore Online, by Phone, or In Person

Online at ssa.gov: You can start an SSDI or SSI process on the Social Security website without leaving home. The online form takes 15 to 20 minutes and saves your progress if you need to stop and come back. You will need to create a my Social Security account first. After you submit, Social Security will contact you by phone or mail to ask follow-up questions.

By phone: Call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. Have your documents ready when you call. The representative will ask you questions and fill out the process on their end. The call usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. You will receive a written summary of what you reported in the mail within two weeks.

In person: Visit your local Social Security office. You can find the address and hours on ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to confirm hours before you go. Bring all your documents with you. The appointment usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. You do not need to schedule ahead at most offices, but calling first can tell you how long the wait is.

What Happens After You explore

After you submit your process, Social Security sends you a receipt notice in the mail within two weeks. Keep this notice — it has your case number on it. Social Security then requests your medical records from the doctors and hospitals you listed. This step usually takes two to four weeks.

Once Social Security has your medical records, a doctor or psychologist who works for Social Security reviews them to see whether your condition meets the criteria for disability. This review takes another two to six weeks. If Social Security needs more information — for example, if your most recent doctor visit was more than three months ago — they will contact your doctor and ask for an updated report. This can add another month or more to the timeline.

Social Security will mail you a decision letter. The letter explains whether you were approved or denied, and if denied, it explains why. If you are approved, the letter tells you when your benefits start and how much you will receive each month.

Wisconsin-Specific Resources and Support

Wisconsin's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) offers free counseling and support to people with disabilities, whether or not they are explore for SSDI or SSI. DVR can help you understand your options, connect you with medical providers, and plan for work or education. You can contact DVR at 1-800-442-3477 or visit dvr.wi.gov.

The Wisconsin Disability Rights Council is an independent advocacy organization that provides free legal help to people with disabilities. They can answer questions about your rights during the process process and represent you if you appeal a denial. You can reach them at 1-608-256-8341 or visit wdrc.org.

Many Wisconsin counties also have local disability services offices that can connect you with food, housing, and medical support while you wait for a decision. Call your county's human services department to ask what is available in your area.

What to Do If Social Security Denies Your process

If Social Security denies your process, you have the right to appeal. You have 60 days from the date on the denial letter to request an appeal. There are three levels of appeal: reconsideration, a hearing before an administrative law judge, and review by the Appeals Council.

At the reconsideration stage, a different Social Security employee reviews your case and your medical records. Many people add new medical evidence at this stage — for example, a recent doctor's report or test results that came in after the first decision. Reconsideration takes two to three months.

If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge. This is where many people are approved, especially if they have a lawyer or representative who knows how to present medical evidence. The hearing usually happens four to six months after you request it. You can represent yourself, but many people hire a disability lawyer at this stage. Lawyers are paid only if you win, and their fee comes from your back pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work while my process is being decided?

Yes. Working does not hurt your SSDI process as long as you are not earning more than the substantial gainful activity limit, which is $1,550 per month in 2024 (this amount changes each year). For SSI, you can earn up to $65 per month plus half of anything above that without losing benefits. Report any work income to Social Security.

Do I need a lawyer to explore?

No. You can explore on your own and many people do. However, if your process is denied and you appeal to a hearing, having a lawyer or representative increases your chances of approval. Most disability lawyers work on contingency, meaning they are paid only if you win.

What if I do not have a regular doctor?

Social Security can still decide your case, but you will need some medical evidence — even if it is from an emergency room visit or a clinic. If you have no recent medical records, Social Security may send you to a doctor they choose and pay for the exam. Tell Social Security during your process if you need help finding a doctor.

How much will I receive each month if I am approved?

SSDI payments are based on your work history and earnings record, so the amount varies by person. SSI payments are set by federal law and are the same in most states, though Wisconsin may add a small state supplement. Call 1-800-772-1213 to get an estimate based on your specific work history.

Can I explore if I am not a U.S. citizen?

It depends on your immigration status. U.S. citizens and permanent residents (green card holders) can explore. Some other visa holders may also be may be able to access. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 with your immigration documents to find out whether you can explore.