Where to check your claim status
You can check on your SSDI claim in three main ways: through your online Social Security account, by calling Social Security directly, or by visiting a local Social Security office in person. The online account is usually the fastest if you already have one set up. If you don't have an account yet, you can create one at ssa.gov.
When you log into your Social Security account online, you'll see a section called "My Requests" or "My Benefits" that shows the status of any claims you've submitted. This page updates regularly and will tell you what stage your claim is in — whether it's being reviewed, whether they need more information from you, or whether a decision has been made.
If you prefer to call, the Social Security toll-free number is 1-800-772-1213. You can call Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time. Have your Social Security number ready when you call. The wait times are usually shorter earlier in the day and earlier in the week.
Key Takeaways
- Your online Social Security account shows your claim status in the "My Requests" or "My Benefits" section and updates regularly throughout the review process.
- You can call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time, and have your Social Security number ready.
- If Social Security needs more information from you, they will send you a letter explaining what documents or details they need and when to send them.
- The time from process to a decision typically ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on how straightforward your medical evidence is.
- You can visit your local Social Security office in person if you prefer to speak with someone face-to-face about your claim.
What the different claim statuses mean
Social Security uses several standard status labels to describe where your claim is in the process. "Pending" or "Under Review" means your process is being examined but no decision has been made yet. This is the most common status while your claim is active.
"More Information Needed" or "Pending — Awaiting Your Response" means Social Security has reviewed what you sent but needs additional documents or details from you before they can move forward. When this happens, they send you a letter explaining exactly what they need and when you should send it. Read that letter carefully and follow the instructions — if you miss the important date, your claim can be denied.
"Decision Made" or "Claim Decided" means Social Security has finished reviewing your case and reached a conclusion. You will receive an official letter in the mail explaining whether your claim was approved or denied. This letter also explains your next steps, including your right to appeal if you disagree with the decision.
What to do if Social Security asks for more information
When Social Security sends you a letter asking for more information, that letter will include a specific important date — usually 10 days to a month from the date on the letter. The letter will list exactly what documents or information they need. Common requests include medical records from your doctor, recent test results, work history details, or clarification about your condition.
Send what they ask for as soon as you can, even if you don't have everything. If you're still gathering documents, send what you have and include a note explaining that more is coming. Keep copies of everything you send. You can mail it, fax it, or upload it through your online account if that option is available in your state.
If you cannot meet the important date for any reason, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and explain your situation. They may be able to extend the important date, but you have to ask — they won't automatically give you more time.
How long the review process typically takes
There is no single timeline for SSDI claims. Some claims are decided in a few weeks if the medical evidence is clear and straightforward. Others take several months if Social Security needs to request records from multiple doctors, order new medical tests, or have a doctor review your case.
Initial claims often take longer than reconsideration appeals because Social Security is gathering information about you for the first time. If your claim is denied and you appeal, the reconsideration stage usually takes 2 to 4 months. If you request a hearing before an administrative law judge, that can take 6 months to over a year depending on how busy the hearing office is in your area.
You can ask Social Security for an estimate when you call or visit in person, though they may not be able to give you a precise date. The status in your online account will update as your case moves through each stage.
Contacting Social Security about your specific claim
When you call or visit in person, have your Social Security number and any claim number or reference number from your paperwork ready. If you're calling on behalf of someone else, you may need to provide a power of attorney or proof that you're authorized to discuss their claim.
If you have a representative — such as a lawyer or advocate — helping with your claim, Social Security can discuss your case with them instead of with you. Your representative should have filed a form with Social Security authorizing them to act on your behalf. If they haven't, ask them to do that before you call.
If you're having trouble reaching Social Security by phone, you can also visit your local Social Security office in person. Find the office nearest you by going to ssa.gov and using their office locator tool. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others require you to make an appointment. Calling ahead is usually the safest approach.
What happens after a decision is made
Once Social Security makes a decision on your claim, you will receive an official letter in the mail. This letter explains whether you were approved or denied, and it includes important information about your next steps.
If your claim is approved, the letter will tell you when your benefits will start and how much you will receive each month. It will also explain your responsibilities — such as reporting any work you do or changes in your living situation — and how to manage your benefits online.
If your claim is denied, the letter will explain the reason for the denial and your right to appeal. You typically have 60 days from the date on the letter to file an appeal. The appeal process has several stages: reconsideration, a hearing before an administrative law judge, and further appeals if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check my SSDI claim status without creating an online account?
Yes. You can call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office in person. Both options allow you to check your status without logging in online. However, creating an online account gives you access to your status information 24 hours a day without waiting on hold.
What should I do if my claim status hasn't changed in a long time?
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and ask for an update. Sometimes claims get delayed because Social Security is waiting for records from a doctor's office or because of a backlog. Calling can help identify whether there's a hold-up and what you can do to move things forward.
If I'm denied, do I have to start the whole process over?
No. You have the right to appeal a denial without reapplying. An appeal goes through a different review process and may involve a hearing. You typically have 60 days from the denial letter to file your appeal, so act quickly if you disagree with the decision.
Can someone else check on my claim for me?
Yes, if you give them permission. You can authorize a representative, family member, or advocate to discuss your claim with Social Security by filing a form with them. Your representative should have already done this, but you can also call Social Security and ask how to authorize someone to speak on your behalf.
What if I moved and Social Security is sending letters to my old address?
Update your address with Social Security as soon as possible. You can do this through your online account, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting your local office in person. Missing a letter from Social Security can delay your claim or result in a denial if they asked for information you didn't receive.