SSA Office Visit Guide
Apply for Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits
Eligibility for SSDI, the application process, what to bring to your appointment, and what to do if your claim is denied.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides monthly payments to people who can't work due to a medical condition expected to last at least a year or result in death. It's not a fast process — initial decisions average three to six months — but applying correctly the first time saves significant time.
Quick answer: You can apply online, by phone, or at an SSA office. The SSA approves about 35% of initial claims; many denials succeed on appeal. Apply as soon as you become disabled — there is no benefit to waiting.
Who qualifies for SSDI
To be approved, you must meet three criteria:
- Work history: You must have worked recently and long enough to earn enough Social Security work credits. Most adults need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled.
- Medical condition: Your condition must prevent substantial gainful activity (earning more than about $1,620/month in 2026 for non-blind individuals) and be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
- Inability to do other work: The SSA considers whether your condition prevents you from doing any work, not just your previous job.
Documents and information you'll need
- Social Security number
- Birth certificate or other proof of birth
- Proof of US citizenship or lawful immigration status
- US military discharge papers if applicable
- W-2s or self-employment tax returns from last year
- Medical evidence: names, addresses, and contact info for all doctors, hospitals, and clinics that have treated you
- Names and dosages of all medications
- Lab and test results
- Summary of your work history for the past 15 years
How to apply
- Online: The fastest method. Go to ssa.gov and select "Apply for Disability."
- By phone: Call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule a phone interview.
- In person: Find your nearest office in our state directory.
What happens after you apply
Your application goes to your state's Disability Determination Services (DDS), which reviews your medical evidence and may request an exam at SSA expense. The initial decision typically takes three to six months.
If your claim is denied
Don't give up. About 65% of initial claims are denied, but many are approved on appeal. You have 60 days to appeal. There are four levels:
- Reconsideration — a different examiner reviews your file
- Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge — your best shot, with about 50% approval
- Appeals Council review
- Federal court
At the hearing stage, hiring a disability attorney is common and they typically work on contingency (paid only if you win, capped at 25% of back pay or $7,200, whichever is less).
How long until benefits start?
There is a mandatory five-month waiting period from your established disability onset date before SSDI payments begin. After approval, you may receive back pay for the months between application and approval.