Where to start filing in Arkansas

To file for disability in Arkansas, you work with Social Security directly—not the state. You can start your claim online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online route is fastest if you have your Social Security number, birth certificate, and medical records handy. If you call or visit an office, a representative will walk you through the same questions.

Arkansas does not run its own disability program. Social Security handles all claims for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) the same way nationwide. The difference is that SSDI is based on your work history, while SSI is based on financial need. You may be filing for one or both, depending on your situation.

Your local Social Security office is in your county seat or a nearby city. You can find the address and hours at ssa.gov/locator. Walk-ins are accepted, but calling ahead to schedule an appointment usually means a shorter wait.

Key Takeaways

  • You file with Social Security directly, not with Arkansas state government, by visiting ssa.gov, calling 1-800-772-1213, or going to your local office in person.
  • Have your Social Security number, birth certificate, medical records, and work history ready before you start, whether you file online or by phone.
  • The process takes three to six months on average, and Social Security will contact you if they need more information about your medical condition or work history.
  • If Social Security denies your claim, you can request reconsideration within 60 days, and many people who are denied the first time are approved on reconsideration or appeal.

What documents you need before filing

Gather these documents before you start your claim. Having them ready speeds up the process and reduces the chance Social Security will ask you to come back with missing paperwork.

Medical records are the most important. Bring records from every doctor, hospital, or mental health provider who has treated you for the condition you believe makes you unable to work. Include test results, imaging reports, and notes from your visits. If you have not seen a doctor recently, Social Security may ask you to get a medical exam before they decide your claim.

Work history comes next. Write down every job you have held in the past 15 years, including the employer name, dates you worked, and what you were paid. If you have W-2 forms or pay stubs, bring those too. Social Security uses this to calculate how much SSDI you might receive and to confirm you have worked long enough to be covered.

You will also need your Social Security number, birth certificate, and proof of citizenship or legal residency (passport, green card, or state ID). If you are filing for SSI, bring proof of your current income and assets, such as bank statements or lease agreements.

The three stages of filing: initial claim, reconsideration, and appeal

Social Security processes disability claims in stages. Understanding each one helps you know what to expect and what to do if the answer is no.

Stage one is your initial claim. You submit your process and medical records. Social Security sends your case to the Disability information Services (DDS) office in Arkansas, which is a state agency that works for Social Security. DDS reviews your medical records and decides whether your condition meets Social Security's definition of disability. This stage usually takes 30 to 90 days, though it can take longer if DDS needs more information from your doctors.

Stage two is reconsideration. If Social Security denies your claim, you have 60 days to ask for reconsideration. This means a different examiner at DDS will review your case from the start. Many people who are denied the first time are approved on reconsideration, especially if you have sent in new medical records or information about your condition. You do not need a lawyer to request reconsideration, though some people find it helpful.

Stage three is an appeal before an administrative law judge (ALJ). If reconsideration is also denied, you can request a hearing before an ALJ within 60 days. This is your chance to present your case in person or by video, answer questions about your medical condition and work history, and have a lawyer or representative speak on your behalf. Many claims that were denied twice are approved at the hearing stage.

How to file online, by phone, or in person

Filing online is the fastest method. Go to ssa.gov/applyfordisability and follow the steps. You will answer questions about your medical condition, work history, and income. The form saves as you go, so you can stop and come back later. When you finish, Social Security will send you a confirmation number. You can check the status of your claim anytime by logging into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov.

Filing by phone takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time. A representative will ask you the same questions as the online form. Have your documents nearby so you can answer accurately. At the end of the call, you will receive a confirmation number and a date to bring your original documents to your local Social Security office.

Filing in person means visiting your local Social Security office with your documents. The representative will complete the process with you and make copies of your records. This method works well if you are not comfortable with computers or phones, or if you need help understanding the questions. Bring all your documents in one folder so nothing gets lost.

What happens after you file

After you submit your claim, Social Security sends it to the Disability information Services office in Little Rock. DDS will review your medical records and may contact your doctors to ask more questions about your condition. If they need additional information, they will contact you by mail or phone.

You will receive a decision letter in the mail. If you are approved, the letter will say when your benefits start and how much you will receive each month. If you are denied, the letter will explain why and tell you how to request reconsideration. Keep this letter—you will need it if you appeal.

While you wait for a decision, continue seeing your doctors and keeping records of your medical treatment. If your condition changes or you have new test results, you can send them to Social Security at any time. Write your Social Security number on everything you send.

What to do if your claim is denied

A denial does not mean you cannot receive benefits. You have the right to challenge the decision at two more stages.

Request reconsideration within 60 days. You can do this online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local office. Tell Social Security you want reconsideration and explain why you disagree with the decision. If you have new medical records or information, include them now. A different examiner will review your case, and many people are approved on reconsideration.

If reconsideration is also denied, request a hearing before an administrative law judge within 60 days. This is a formal hearing where you can present your case. You can attend in person, by video, or by phone. Many people hire a disability lawyer or representative for the hearing, though it is not required. A lawyer typically takes 25 percent of your back pay if you win, up to a maximum set by Social Security.

Do not wait to appeal. If you miss the 60-day important date, you lose your right to that stage and have to start over with a new claim.

Working with a lawyer or representative

You can hire a lawyer or non-lawyer representative to help with your claim at any stage. Many people find representation helpful, especially if your claim has been denied and you are preparing for a hearing.

A representative can review your medical records, help you gather evidence, prepare you for a hearing, and speak on your behalf. They cannot speed up Social Security's decision, but they can make sure your case is presented as strongly as possible.

If you hire a lawyer or representative, they must be approved by Social Security. You can find approved representatives through the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR) or by asking your local Social Security office. Most charge a fee only if you win your case, and Social Security limits the fee to 25 percent of your back pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work while I wait for a disability decision?

Yes. Working does not hurt your claim, but if you earn more than $1,550 per month (in 2024), Social Security may decide you are able to work and deny your claim. Keep your earnings below this amount if possible, or talk to a representative about how work affects your specific situation.

How long does it take to get a decision?

Initial claims usually take 30 to 90 days, but can take longer if DDS needs more medical records. Reconsideration takes another 30 to 90 days. A hearing before an ALJ can take several months because of the backlog of cases. The entire process from filing to a final decision can take one to three years.

What if I move out of Arkansas while my claim is pending?

Your claim stays with Social Security and follows you. Tell Social Security your new address by updating your account at ssa.gov, calling 1-800-772-1213, or visiting your new local office. Your case will be handled the same way regardless of where you live.

Do I have to see a Social Security doctor?

Social Security may ask you to see a doctor they choose if your medical records are incomplete or outdated. This exam is free and does not cost you anything. The doctor's report goes to DDS to help them decide your claim. You can bring your own medical records to the exam to make sure the doctor has complete information.

What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?

SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes you have paid. SSI is based on financial need and is available to people with low income and few assets, regardless of work history. You may be filing for one or both. Social Security will tell you which programs you might receive when you file.