You can start an SSDI process online at ssa.gov, but the process has limits
Social Security lets you begin a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) process on their website without visiting an office. You go to ssa.gov, create a my Social Security account, and fill out the initial form. However, the online process does not let you finish the entire process — at some point, a Social Security representative will contact you to complete the rest, usually by phone or in person at a local office.
The online start saves time because Social Security already has some of your information on file if you have ever worked or received benefits. You do not have to gather everything at once. But you should know upfront that you will need to speak with someone from Social Security before your case moves forward, and that conversation may take weeks to schedule.
Key Takeaways
- You create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov, then select "explore for benefits" to begin an SSDI or SSI process online.
- The online form asks about your medical condition, work history, and household, but does not complete the full process — Social Security will call or mail you next steps.
- You can save your progress and return later, so you do not have to finish in one sitting.
- After you submit the online form, Social Security typically contacts you within two to four weeks to schedule a phone interview or office appointment.
- Bring medical records, work history documents, and proof of income to your follow-up interview, because Social Security will ask for details the online form did not cover.
Creating a my Social Security account
Before you can start an process online, you need a my Social Security account. Go to ssa.gov and look for the "Create an account" button on the homepage. You will need your Social Security number, email address, and a password you create yourself.
Social Security will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your past — things like previous addresses, loan amounts, or credit history. This takes a few minutes. Once you pass verification, your account is active and you can log in anytime.
If you already have a my Social Security account because you check your earnings record or manage other benefits, you can use that same login to start your SSDI or SSI process. You do not need a separate account.
Starting the process form online
After you log into your my Social Security account, look for a section labeled "explore for benefits" or "Benefits and Support." You will see options for different types of benefits. Select either "Disability benefits" (for SSDI) or "Supplemental Security Income" (for SSI), depending on which one you are explore for. If you are not sure which applies to you, Social Security's website has a brief comparison, or you can ask during your follow-up phone call.
The online form asks you to describe your medical condition, when it started, and how it affects your ability to work. You will also answer questions about your work history, current living situation, and household income. The form saves automatically as you type, so if you need to stop and come back later, your answers stay there.
You do not have to upload medical records or documents at this stage. Social Security will ask for those during your phone interview or office visit. For now, just answer the questions as completely as you can based on what you remember.
What happens after you submit the form
Once you submit your online form, Social Security sends it to your local field office. A claims representative there reviews what you entered and decides whether to contact you by phone or mail you a notice asking you to come in for an interview.
Most people hear from Social Security within two to four weeks. If the office is busy, it may take longer. You can check the status of your process by logging back into your my Social Security account — there is usually a section showing whether your case is pending, under review, or waiting for you to provide more information.
If Social Security needs to reach you by phone, they will call the number you provided on the form. If you miss the call, they will usually try again or send you a letter with instructions on how to schedule an appointment. It is a good idea to answer calls from unknown numbers during this time, or to check your voicemail regularly.
Documents and information to have ready for your interview
Social Security will ask you to bring or send documents that prove the facts in your process. The most important ones are medical records from doctors who have treated you for your condition. These can be office visit notes, test results, hospital discharge papers, or letters from your doctor describing your limitations.
You will also need proof of your work history. Bring W-2 forms, pay stubs, or a letter from your employer showing when you worked and what you earned. If you are self-employed, bring tax returns from the past two years. Social Security can also pull your earnings record from their own files, but having your own copies speeds things up.
Bring proof of your identity and citizenship or legal residency — a driver's license, passport, or birth certificate works. If you have a spouse or dependents, bring their birth certificates and Social Security numbers. If your household receives other income, bring recent bank statements or benefit letters showing how much.
Completing the process by phone or in person
Your follow-up interview is when Social Security asks detailed questions about your medical history, your symptoms, how your condition affects daily tasks, and your work background. The representative may ask the same questions you answered online, but in more depth. This is normal — they are building a complete picture for the decision-maker.
If the interview is by phone, you can do it from home. If Social Security asks you to come to the office, bring all the documents listed above. The appointment usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. You can bring someone with you — a family member, friend, or representative — to help you explain your situation or take notes.
After the interview, Social Security sends your case to a medical examiner or disability information office. That office reviews your medical records and decides whether your condition meets Social Security's definition of disability. This part of the process typically takes two to four months, though it can be longer if they need more medical information.
What to do if you cannot complete the process online
Some people have trouble creating a my Social Security account or logging in. If you cannot verify your identity online, you can call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and ask to start your process over the phone instead. A representative will walk you through the questions and submit the form for you. This takes longer in one sitting, but you get the same result.
You can also visit your local Social Security office in person to explore. Find your nearest office at ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Walk-in appointments are not may provide, so it is better to call ahead or use the office's online appointment scheduler if available. explore in person takes longer than online, but some people prefer it because they can hand over documents right away and ask questions face-to-face.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I explore for SSDI and SSI at the same time online?
Yes. If you meet the requirements for both programs, Social Security will process both applications together. You select both options when you start the form, and the same interview covers both. Social Security will tell you which one you may have access to for, or whether you may have access to for both.
What if I do not have a computer or internet at home?
You can use a computer at a public library, a friend's house, or a Social Security office to start your process. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 and ask a representative to help you over the phone. Both options are free.
How long does the whole process take from start to decision?
From the moment you submit your online form to the moment you get a decision usually takes three to six months. The online part takes a few minutes. The wait for your phone interview or office appointment is two to four weeks. The medical review after your interview takes two to four months. If Social Security needs more medical records, it can take longer.
Can I track my process status online after I submit it?
Yes. Log into your my Social Security account and look for a section showing your process status. It will tell you whether your case is pending, under review, or waiting for you to provide documents. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 and give your Social Security number to check status by phone.
What if I made a mistake on the online form?
You can log back in and edit your answers before Social Security contacts you. After a representative calls or sends you a letter, tell them about the mistake during your interview. They will correct it in the system. Do not worry — small errors do not usually delay your case.