The Disability Application Process
Social Security Reviews Your Application
Social Security first reviews whether you meet the basic non-medical requirements for disability benefits. For SSDI, this can include your age, work history, work credits, current work activity, and Social Security coverage.
If you meet the initial requirements, your claim generally moves to a state agency called Disability Determination Services (DDS), which reviews the medical evidence and makes the initial disability determination.
Your Medical Records Are Reviewed
DDS generally tries to collect evidence from the doctors, hospitals, clinics, and other medical providers listed in your application.
- Diagnoses and medical testing
- Doctor and specialist visits
- Treatment history and medications
- Physical or mental limitations
- How your condition affects work activities
If existing records do not provide enough information, additional evidence may be needed before a decision can be made.
You May Receive More Forms or Questions
Submitting your application does not necessarily mean you’re finished providing information. You may receive requests about your condition, daily activities, previous jobs, limitations, recent treatment, or changes in your health.
While you wait
Respond completely and within the requested timeframe to help prevent unnecessary problems or delays.
You May Be Asked to Attend a Medical Examination
If there is not enough medical evidence for DDS to make a decision, it may arrange a consultative examination, often called a CE.
A consultative examination does not necessarily mean something is wrong with your claim. It may simply mean the reviewer needs more medical information. If one is scheduled, make every effort to attend and follow the instructions you receive.
How long does a decision take?
About 6–8 monthsSocial Security says an initial disability decision generally takes about 6 to 8 months. Your claim may take more or less time depending on medical records, provider response times, examinations, complexity, and additional review.
Social Security Makes a Decision
After DDS collects and reviews the available evidence, Social Security notifies you of the initial decision.
Remaining processing and benefit information
Decision explanation and appeal options
If approved, your notice should explain the decision and benefit details. If denied, the notice should explain why, your right to appeal, how to request an appeal, and the deadline for taking action.
What Should I Do While I’m Waiting?
Keep Going to Medical Appointments
Continuing appropriate treatment can create updated documentation showing your condition, treatment, and limitations.
Keep Your Information Updated
Follow Social Security’s instructions if you move, change your phone number, see a new doctor, receive more testing, return to work, stop working, or experience another significant change.
Respond When Social Security Contacts You
A request for more information is not necessarily a bad sign. Prompt responses can help keep your claim moving.
Can I Check the Status of My Disability Application?
Yes. You can check a pending application through your personal my Social Security account. Do not be alarmed if the status does not change frequently; much of the process involves gathering and reviewing evidence behind the scenes.
Official Social Security resource
Already have a pending application?
Check your official application or appeal status directly through the Social Security Administration.
What If My Disability Claim Gets Denied?
An initial denial does not necessarily mean the process is over. If you disagree with Social Security’s decision, you may have the right to appeal, and strict deadlines can apply.
Related guideTop Reasons Disability Claims Get DeniedRead article →Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hear back after applying for disability?
Social Security says an initial disability decision generally takes around 6 to 8 months, although the actual timeline can vary significantly depending on your medical evidence and circumstances.
Will Social Security contact my doctors?
Disability Determination Services generally attempts to obtain medical evidence from the treatment sources listed in your application. Providing complete and accurate provider information can help with this process.
Why is Social Security sending me more forms after I already applied?
Additional forms may be needed to understand your medical condition, daily activities, previous work, or current limitations. Receiving another form does not necessarily indicate whether your claim will be approved or denied.
Why am I being sent to another doctor?
If there isn’t enough medical evidence available to make a determination, DDS may arrange a consultative examination to obtain additional information.
How can I check my disability application status?
You can check the status of your application through your personal my Social Security account at SSA.gov.
What happens if my SSDI application is approved?
Social Security completes any remaining non-medical processing, calculates the applicable benefit amount, and provides information about your benefits.
What happens if my SSDI application is denied?
You’ll receive a notice explaining the decision and your appeal rights. If you disagree, you generally have the option to request the next level of review within the deadline stated in your notice.