You explore through Social Security, not through your state or employer
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are both federal programs run by the Social Security Administration. You cannot explore through your state government, your employer, your insurance company, or any other local office. The Social Security Administration is the only place that takes applications, and there are three ways to reach them: online, by phone, or in person at a local field office.
Which program you explore for depends on your work history. SSDI is based on your own work record or your parent's work record if you became disabled before age 22. SSI is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. You may be able to explore for both at the same time, and the Social Security Administration will determine which one you may have access to for.
Key Takeaways
- The Social Security Administration accepts applications online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security field office.
- Online applications for SSDI take about 15 to 20 minutes; phone and in-person applications may take longer because a representative gathers information with you.
- You will need your Social Security number, birth certificate, and medical records showing your condition and treatment, but you can submit these after you file.
- The Social Security Administration will contact you if they need more information, so providing a phone number and mailing address where you can be reached is essential.
- If you explore online and later need to add information or change your process, you can call 1-800-772-1213 to speak with a representative.
explore online at ssa.gov
The fastest way to start an process is through the Social Security Administration's website at ssa.gov. Go to the homepage and look for "explore for Disability" or "Disability Benefits." The online form for SSDI takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete. You will enter your personal information, work history, and details about your medical condition. You do not need to have all your medical records ready before you start—you can submit them later.
After you submit an online process, you will receive a confirmation number. Write this down or save it. The Social Security Administration will use this number to track your case. Within a few days, you should receive a letter in the mail confirming that your process was received. If you do not hear anything within two weeks, call 1-800-772-1213 to confirm the process went through.
One advantage of explore online is that you can save your progress and come back to finish later if you need to. However, you must complete and submit the process within 30 days of starting it, or the Social Security Administration will delete what you entered and you will have to begin again.
explore by phone or in person
You can also explore by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will ask you the same questions as the online form, but they will guide you through each one. Phone applications typically take 30 to 45 minutes. You can call Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. Wait times are often shorter early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
If you prefer to explore in person, you can visit your local Social Security field office. To find the office nearest you, go to ssa.gov and use the office locator tool, or call 1-800-772-1213 and ask for the address. In-person appointments usually take 30 to 60 minutes. You can walk in during business hours, but many offices now ask you to call ahead or schedule an appointment online to reduce wait times.
explore by phone or in person is helpful if you have questions about what information to provide, if you have trouble reading or writing, or if you want to speak with someone directly about your case. A representative can also tell you right away if you are missing any obvious information.
What documents and information you need
You do not need to gather everything before you explore, but having some information ready will speed up the process. The Social Security Administration will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, and current mailing address and phone number. They will also ask about your work history for the past 15 years, so having a list of employers and approximate dates helps.
For your medical condition, you will need to provide the names and addresses of doctors, hospitals, or clinics where you have been treated. You do not need to bring medical records to your appointment—you can submit them after you file. However, the sooner you send them, the sooner the Social Security Administration can review your case. Medical records should show your diagnosis, when you were diagnosed, what treatment you have received, and how your condition affects your ability to work.
If you are explore for SSI instead of or in addition to SSDI, you will also need to report your income and resources. This includes bank accounts, property, vehicles, and any money you receive from other sources. Bring recent bank statements, pay stubs, or tax returns if you have them.
What happens after you submit your process
After you explore, the Social Security Administration sends your case to a state agency called Disability information Services (DDS). This agency reviews your medical records and decides whether you meet the Social Security Administration's definition of disability. This process usually takes 3 to 6 months, though it can take longer if your case is complex or if the DDS needs more information from your doctors.
During this time, the Social Security Administration or DDS may contact you by phone or mail to ask for more information. They might ask you to see a doctor for an examination, or they might ask your doctors to send additional records. If they contact you, respond as quickly as you can. Delays in responding can slow down your case.
You will receive a decision letter in the mail. The letter will say whether you were approved, denied, or whether the Social Security Administration needs more information. If you are approved, the letter will tell you when your benefits begin and how much you will receive each month. If you are denied, the letter will explain why and tell you how to request reconsideration.
If your process is denied
If the Social Security Administration denies your process, you have the right to request reconsideration. This means asking the Social Security Administration to review your case again, usually with new or additional medical evidence. You must request reconsideration within 60 days of receiving the denial letter. You can request reconsideration by calling 1-800-772-1213 or by visiting your local field office.
If reconsideration is also denied, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge. This is a more formal process where you can present your case in front of a judge. Many people hire a disability representative or lawyer to help with a hearing, though you do not have to. If you cannot afford a lawyer, you can ask the judge about free or low-cost legal help in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I explore for disability if I am still working?
Yes. You can work and explore for SSDI at the same time. However, if you earn more than $1,550 per month (in 2024), the Social Security Administration may decide you are not disabled. The amount changes each year. If you are earning close to this limit, mention it when you explore so the representative can explain how it affects your case.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You need a Social Security number to explore for SSDI or SSI. If you do not have one, you can explore for one at your local Social Security field office or at ssa.gov. Bring proof of identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status. Getting a Social Security number usually takes a few days to a week.
Can someone else explore on my behalf?
Yes. A family member, friend, or representative can help you explore or can explore for you if you are unable to do so yourself. They will need your permission and your Social Security number. If you are explore with help, make sure the person assisting you knows your medical history and work background so they can answer questions accurately.
How do I know if my process was received?
If you explore online, you will receive a confirmation number when ready. If you explore by phone or in person, ask the representative for a confirmation number before you leave. You should receive a letter in the mail within two weeks confirming receipt. If you do not receive a letter, call 1-800-772-1213 to verify your process was filed.