How to Check the Status of Your Child's SSDI Application

Where to Check Your process Status

You can check the status of your child's SSDI process in three ways: by phone, by mail, or through your online Social Security account. The fastest method is usually your online account, where you can see updates within one business day of Social Security processing them. If you do not have an online account yet, you can create one at ssa.gov using your Social Security number and email address.

By phone, call Social Security's main line at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Have your child's Social Security number ready. Wait times are typically shortest early in the morning on weekdays. Social Security staff can tell you whether your process is still being reviewed, whether they need more information from you, or whether a decision has been made.

You can also visit your local Social Security office in person. Find the nearest one at ssa.gov/locator. Bring your child's Social Security card and your own ID. This method takes longer than calling but can be useful if you need to submit documents or discuss your case face-to-face.

Key Takeaways

• Check your process status through your online Social Security account, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting your local Social Security office.
• Social Security typically takes 3 to 6 months to make an initial decision on a child's SSDI process, though some cases take longer.
• If Social Security requests more information, they will send you a letter explaining what documents they need and when you must send them.
• If your process is denied, you have 60 days from the date on the denial letter to file an appeal.

What to Expect During the Review Process

After you submit your child's process, Social Security sends you a receipt notice within 2 to 3 weeks. This notice includes a case number and the name of the person assigned to your case. Keep this notice — you will need the case number every time you contact Social Security about your process.

Social Security then reviews your child's medical records, school records, and any other evidence you submitted. If they need more information, they will send you a letter listing exactly what they want. This letter includes a important date, usually 10 days from the date on the letter. If you miss the important date, Social Security may deny your process without reviewing it further, though you can ask for more time if you have a good reason.

The initial decision typically takes 3 to 6 months from the date you submit your process. Some cases take longer if Social Security needs to request records from doctors, hospitals, or schools, or if your case is complex. You will receive the decision by mail, not by phone.

How to Read Your Status When You Check Online

When you log into your Social Security account and view your child's process, you will see a status line that says one of the following: "We received your process," "We are reviewing your process," "We need more information," or "We made a decision."

If the status says "We need more information," click on that section to see what Social Security is asking for and when they need it by. Do not wait — send the documents as soon as you can, even if you have time left. If the status says "We made a decision," you can view the decision letter online or wait for it to arrive by mail within a few days.

If you do not see any status update for more than 2 weeks after you submitted your process, call Social Security to confirm they received it. Sometimes applications are delayed in the mail or lost in the system.

What to Do If Social Security Requests More Information

When Social Security sends you a letter asking for more information, read it carefully and note the important date. Common requests include medical records from your child's doctor, school records showing your child's grades and any special education services, or a statement from you explaining how your child's condition affects daily activities.

Send the documents by mail to the address listed in the letter, or ask whether you can submit them through your online account. Keep a copy for your records. If you cannot get the documents by the important date, call Social Security before the important date expires and ask for an extension. They will usually grant one if you have a reasonable reason, such as waiting for records from a hospital.

If you submit documents but are not sure Social Security received them, call to confirm. Ask the staff member to note in your file that you submitted the documents on a specific date.

Understanding the Decision Letter

When Social Security makes a decision, they send you a letter explaining whether your child's process was approved or denied. If approved, the letter states the monthly benefit amount and when payments will start. Payments usually begin the month after Social Security approves the process.

If denied, the letter explains the reason. Common reasons include that your child's condition does not meet Social Security's definition of disability, that the medical evidence does not support the claim, or that your child's condition is expected to improve within 12 months. The letter also explains your right to appeal and gives you 60 days from the date on the letter to file an appeal.

Read the entire letter, even if you do not understand every part. It contains important information about your next steps and your rights. If anything is unclear, call Social Security and ask them to explain it.

How to Appeal If Your process Is Denied

If your child's process is denied, you have 60 days from the date on the denial letter to file an appeal. There are four levels of appeal: reconsideration, hearing before an administrative law judge, Appeals Council review, and federal court. Most people start with reconsideration.

To request reconsideration, fill out Form SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration) and mail it to the address on your denial letter, or submit it through your online account. You can also visit your local Social Security office and ask staff to help you file. Include any new medical evidence or other information that supports your child's claim.

Reconsideration usually takes 3 to 6 months. Social Security will assign a different person to review your case. If reconsideration is also denied, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge, which often takes 6 to 12 months but gives you a chance to present your case in person or by phone.

Keeping Track of Your process

Create a folder (physical or digital) to store all documents related to your child's process. Keep copies of the process itself, the receipt notice, any letters from Social Security, medical records you submitted, and notes from any phone calls you made. Write down the date, time, and name of the person you spoke with each time you call.

Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to check your process status every 2 to 3 weeks. If you do not see an update within the timeframe Social Security gave you, call to ask why. Sometimes applications stall without explanation, and a phone call can get things moving again.

If you change your address or phone number, notify Social Security when ready by calling 1-800-772-1213 or updating your online account. Missing a letter from Social Security can delay your case or result in a denial.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to hear back about my child's SSDI process?

Social Security typically takes 3 to 6 months to make an initial decision. Some cases take longer if they need to request records from multiple doctors or schools, or if your case requires a medical informed's review. You will receive the decision by mail, not by phone.

What does it mean if my status says "We need more information"?

Social Security is asking you to send additional documents or evidence to support your child's claim. The letter will list exactly what they need and when you must send it. Send the documents as soon as possible, even if you have time left before the important date.

Can I check my child's process status without creating an online account?

Yes. You can call 1-800-772-1213 and speak with a Social Security representative, or visit your local Social Security office in person. Both methods work, but the online account is usually fastest because you can check your status 24 hours a day.

What happens if I miss the important date Social Security gave me to send documents?

Social Security may deny your process without reviewing it further. However, you can call and ask for an extension if you have a good reason, such as waiting for records from a hospital. If your process is denied for missing a important date, you can appeal within 60 days.

Do I need a lawyer to check my process status or appeal a denial?

No. You can check your status and file an appeal on your own. However, a lawyer or advocate familiar with SSDI can help you gather evidence and present your case, especially if your first process was denied. Some lawyers work on contingency, meaning they only get paid if you win.