SSDI: Understanding the Path to Disability Benefits

Understanding SSDI: How does it help?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that offers monthly income to people who can’t work due to a qualifying disability. Run by the Social Security Administration (SSA), it can also extend support to certain family members of those who qualify.

Unlike need-based programs, SSDI is tied to your employment history. The SSA reviews how long you worked and how much you contributed through payroll taxes to decide if you qualify and how much you’ll receive.

Here’s what SSDI can do for you:

Provide monthly payments to people with approved disabilities
Offer financial support to spouses, children, or other dependents
Calculate benefits based on your work record and Social Security contributions

These benefits are meant to offer financial stability during a time when earning a steady income isn’t possible, helping you and your family focus on daily needs rather than financial strain.

How SSDI Benefits Work

Social Security Disability Insurance provides monthly payments to people who are unable to work because of a qualifying disability. Eligibility is based on your work history and how much you’ve contributed to Social Security through payroll taxes. These benefits are designed to replace a portion of the income you lose when a disability prevents you from earning a paycheck.

To qualify, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of a disability and complete the application process. As part of that process, you’ll need to provide important details such as:

Your personal information
Your employment history
Your medical records and documentation

Once you apply, the SSA will review your case and mail you a decision. If approved, you’ll begin receiving monthly payments to cover everyday expenses and essential needs.

SSDI vs. SSI: What’s the Difference?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are both federal programs that support people with qualifying disabilities, but they operate very differently. Understanding the key differences can help you figure out which one you may be eligible for.

Here’s how they compare:

SSDI: Based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you’ve paid over time. You’ll need enough work credits from taxable employment to qualify.
SSI: Based on financial need rather than work history. Applicants must show they have limited income and resources.

Both programs share the same definition of disability. Still, they serve different groups—SSDI helps people who’ve paid into Social Security through work, while SSI is designed for those with low income who may or may not have a significant work record.

How SSDI Connects to Medicare

If you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance, you’ll also become eligible for Medicare— but there’s a waiting period. Most recipients gain access to this federal health insurance program 24 months after their SSDI benefits begin.

During that time, you may still have health coverage options, such as staying on an employer-sponsored plan or qualifying for Medicaid. Each month you receive SSDI counts toward the 24-month requirement, and certain previous disability periods can shorten that wait if your new disability starts:

Within 60 months after your last SSDI benefits ended
Within 84 months after the disabled widow(er) or childhood disability benefits ended
At any time, if it’s the same or a related disability as before

If you decide to return to work while still meeting the SSA’s definition of disability, you can continue receiving Medicare coverage once the waiting period is over.

SSDI Program Contact Information

Department	Phone Number	Email	Office Locator
Social Security Administration (SSA)	Toll-free: 1-800-772-1213	Online email form:https://secure.ssa.gov/emailus/	https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp

SSDI Eligibility by Recipient Type

Social Security Disability Insurance eligibility is divided into several categories based on who’s receiving the benefits. Disabled workers, spouses, widows or widowers, and children each fall under their own set of criteria.

SSDI Requirements for Disabled Workers

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance as a disabled worker, you must meet all of the following conditions:

Work credits: You must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security.
Income limit: If you’re currently working, your earnings must stay below a set amount to meet the SSA’s definition of disability.
Disability status: You must meet the Social Security Administration’s criteria for what qualifies as a disability.

Work Credit Requirements

Work credits, sometimes called Social Security credits, are earned when you work in a job covered by Social Security and pay Social Security taxes. These credits are essential to qualifying for SSDI benefits.

To be eligible, you must pass two tests:

Recent work test: Shows that you worked recently enough to qualify. The number of credits required depends on your age:
Disabled before age 24: 6 credits earned in the 3 years before your disability began.
Disabled ages 24–31: Credits for working about half the time between age 21 and when your disability began. For example, if you become disabled at 27, you’d need 12 credits (about 3 years of work) out of the previous 6 years.
Disabled age 31 or older: 20 credits earned in the 10 years before becoming disabled.
Work duration test: Confirms you’ve earned enough total work credits for your age group. The SSA uses the table below to estimate the total number of credits and years of work required based on your age when the disability began.

Age Which You Become Disabled	Number of Work Credits	Years of Work Needed
Before 28	6	1.5
30	8	2
34	12	3
38	16	4
42	20	5
44	22	5.5
46	24	6
48	26	6.5
50	28	7
52	30	7.5
54	32	8
56	34	8.5
58	36	9
60	38	9.5

Note: The table above is only a general guide and doesn’t cover every possible situation. For more detailed information about work credits and how they’re calculated, visit https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/credits.html

In 2025, you’ll earn one work credit for every $1,810 in income. You can receive a maximum of four work credits per year, which means once you earn $7,240, you’ve reached the yearly limit. The amount needed for a credit is adjusted annually to account for changes in the cost of living.

How the SSA Defines Disability

Meeting the work credit requirements is only part of qualifying for SSDI—you must also meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. SSDI benefits are available only for total disability. If your condition is partial or short-term, you won’t meet the criteria.

The SSA considers you disabled if all of the following are true:

You can’t perform the work you did before your disability.
Your condition affects essential work-related abilities, such as walking, lifting, remembering, or sitting.
You can’t adjust to other types of work because of your medical condition.
Your disability has lasted or is expected to last at least one year, or it’s expected to result in death.

Medical Conditions That May Qualify for SSDI

The Social Security Administration keeps a detailed list of medical conditions for each major body system that are considered severe enough to keep you from working. If your condition isn’t listed, the SSA will review it to determine whether it’s just as limiting.

1. Musculoskeletal System

Conditions can include joint dysfunctions, spinal disorders, amputations, fractures, soft tissue injuries, degenerative diseases, and more. Learn more here: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/1.00-Musculoskeletal-Adult.htm

2. Special Senses and Speech

Qualifying conditions include vision impairments, hearing loss, speech loss, and other sensory disorders. Learn more here:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/2.00-SpecialSensesandSpeech-Adult.htm

3. Respiratory Disorders

Examples include COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, and respiratory cancers. Learn more here:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/3.00-Respiratory-Adult.htm

4. Cardiovascular System

Conditions may include chronic heart failure, ischemic heart disease, arrhythmias, congenital heart defects, aneurysms, and more. Learn more here:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/4.00-Cardiovascular-Adult.htm

5. Digestive System

Examples include gastrointestinal bleeding, chronic liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), short bowel syndrome (SBS), and liver transplants. Learn more here:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/5.00-Digestive-Adult.htm

6. Genitourinary Disorders

Conditions include chronic kidney disease requiring dialysis, kidney transplants, and nephrotic syndrome. Learn more here:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/6.00-Genitourinary-Adult.htm

7. Hematological Disorders

Qualifying conditions include sickle cell disease, thalassemia, blood clotting disorders, and bone marrow failure. Learn more here:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/7.00-HematologicalDisorders-Adult.htm

8. Skin Disorders

Conditions include dermatitis, chronic infections, hidradenitis suppurativa, burns, and genetic photosensitivity disorders. Learn more here:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/8.00-Skin-Adult.htm

9. Endocrine Disorders

Examples include thyroid, pituitary, parathyroid, adrenal, and pancreatic gland disorders, diabetes, hyperglycemia, and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Learn more here:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/9.00-Endocrine-Adult.htm

10. Congenital Disorders Affecting Multiple Systems

Non-mosaic Down syndrome that affects multiple body systems is considered here. Learn more here:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/10.00-MultipleBody-Adult.htm

11. Neurological Disorders

Conditions include epilepsy, ALS, Parkinsonian syndrome, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, and peripheral neuropathy. Learn more here:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/11.00-Neurological-Adult.htm

12. Mental Disorders

Examples include schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, autism spectrum disorder, and trauma-related disorders. Learn more here:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/12.00-MentalDisorders-Adult.htm

13. Cancer

All cancers are considered except certain types associated with HIV infection. Learn more here: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/13.00-NeoplasticDiseases-Malignant-Adult.htm

14. Immune System Disorders

Qualifying conditions include lupus, scleroderma, inflammatory arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, and immune deficiency disorders (excluding HIV). Learn more here:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/14.00-Immune-Adult.htm

Note: Even if your condition isn’t specifically listed, you may still qualify if it’s equally severe and significantly limits your ability to work.

Compassionate Allowances and Faster Disability Decisions

If you have a serious medical condition that almost always qualifies for disability benefits, you may be eligible for a faster review through the Compassionate Allowances program. Conditions like acute leukemia, ALS, or pancreatic cancer typically fall into this category.

The Social Security Administration also uses a system called Quick Disability Determinations (QDD)—a computer-based screening tool that helps quickly identify claims with a high chance of approval.

If your condition is on the Compassionate Allowances list, you could start receiving SSDI benefits as soon as your diagnosis is confirmed.

View the full list of qualifying conditions here: https://www.ssa.gov/compassionateallowances/conditions.htm

Qualifying Income Limits for SSDI

Your monthly income plays a key role in whether the Social Security Administration considers you disabled. This income threshold is known as substantial gainful activity (SGA).

In 2025, earning an average of $1,550 or less per month—or $2,590 or less for individuals who are blind—typically meets the SSA’s definition of disability. If your earnings exceed these amounts, you’re generally not considered disabled under SSDI rules.

Maintaining Your SSDI Eligibility

The Social Security Administration reviews SSDI cases regularly to ensure beneficiaries continue to meet eligibility requirements. You’ll continue receiving benefits as long as your disability prevents you from working and your situation hasn’t significantly changed.

Your condition will be placed into one of three review categories:

Expected improvement: Your case is reviewed within 6 to 18 months of your benefits starting.
Possible improvement: Your case is reviewed no sooner than 3 years after benefits begin.
Improvement not expected: Your case is reviewed no sooner than 7 years after benefits begin.

Your benefits could end if any of the following occur:

Your average monthly earnings reach $1,620 or more in 2025 ($2,700 or more if you’re blind), as this is considered “substantial work.”
The SSA determines that your disability has improved enough that you no longer meet the criteria for benefits.

SSDI Eligibility Requirements for Spouses

Your spouse may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits based on your record if any of the following apply:

They are 62 or older.
They are caring for a child under 16 or a child with a disability.
Their own retirement benefits are lower than your disability benefits. In this case, they may receive a combination of both.

If your spouse qualifies, they may receive up to 50% of your disability benefit amount. However, there is a maximum total amount your family can receive in combined benefits.

SSDI Eligibility Requirements for Children

Your children may qualify for SSDI benefits under your record if they are unmarried and meet one of these conditions:

Are under 18 years old
Are 18 to 19 years old and a full-time student (through grade 12)
Are 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22

Eligible children can include biological, adopted, stepchildren, or even dependent grandchildren. Benefits usually end when your child turns 18, unless they’re disabled. If they’re still a full-time student at that age, benefits continue until graduation or up to two months after they turn 19—whichever comes first.

Adult Disabled Children

If your adult child’s disability began before age 22, they can receive SSDI benefits as soon as you qualify. They don’t need work credits, but they can’t earn more than $1,550 per month. Their disability will be evaluated by the SSA using the same standards applied to your claim.

If your child already receives disability benefits on their own record, you can compare both benefit amounts to see which is higher.

Generally, SSDI benefits stop if your child gets married. However, if they marry another person with a disability, that union is typically considered a protected marriage and may not affect their benefits. To confirm or for more information, contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

SSDI Eligibility Requirements for Divorced Spouses

If you’re divorced, your former spouse may still qualify for SSDI benefits based on your Social Security record—even if you remarry. To be eligible, your ex-spouse must meet all of the following criteria:

Was married to you for at least 10 years
Is 62 or older
Has not remarried
Is not eligible for an equal or higher benefit on their own record or someone else’s

Note: If your ex-spouse receives a pension from a government or foreign job, their benefits from your record may be reduced by two-thirds, unless:

The pension is not based on earnings, or
It’s from a government job where they paid Social Security taxes, and one of the following is true:
- They applied for and were entitled to spousal or survivor benefits before April 1, 2004
- Their last day of work was before July 1, 2004
- They paid Social Security taxes during the last 60 months of government service

If your ex-spouse qualifies, their benefits will not reduce your own payments or count toward your family’s maximum benefit amount.

SSDI Eligibility Requirements for Survivors, Widows, and Widowers

A survivor is a spouse, child, or parent of a worker who has passed away, while a widow or widower refers specifically to the deceased worker’s spouse. These individuals may be eligible for monthly survivor benefits if the worker earned enough work credits before their death.

The number of work credits required depends on the situation. In some cases, spouses caring for dependent children, or the children themselves, may qualify even if the worker earned as few as six credits (about 1.5 years of work) in the three years before their passing. The SSA recommends speaking with a Social Security Claims Representative to understand the specific credit requirements for your situation.

The following family members may be eligible for survivor benefits:

SSDI Survivor Benefits for Widows and Widowers

Widows and widowers can receive survivor benefits starting at age 60, or as early as age 50 if they have a qualifying disability. They may also qualify at any age if they’re caring for the deceased worker’s child who is under 16 or disabled and receiving benefits on that record.

Note: If a widow or widower remarries before age 60 (or before age 50 if disabled), they cannot receive survivor benefits while that marriage continues.

If a spouse was already receiving SSDI benefits, those benefits automatically convert to survivor benefits once the SSA is notified of the worker’s death. To report a death, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

The amount a widow or widower receives depends on their age, their situation, and the benefit amount the deceased worker was entitled to.

If the widow or widower is…	They will receive this percentage of the deceased worker’s benefit amount:
Full retirement age or older	100 percent
Between ages 60 and full retirement age	71.5 – 99 percent
Disabled and between the ages of 50 and 59	71.5 percent
Caring for the deceased worker’s child who is younger than 16 years of age	75 percent

SSDI Survivor Benefits for Children

Unmarried children of a deceased worker may qualify for survivor benefits if they meet one of the following criteria:

Are under 18
Are under 19 and a full-time student in elementary or secondary school
Are 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22

Eligible children—including biological, adopted, stepchildren, grandchildren, and step-grandchildren—can receive up to 75% of the deceased worker’s benefit amount.

SSDI Survivor Benefits for Dependent Parents

Dependent parents of a deceased worker who are 62 or older may qualify for survivor benefits if all of the following are true:

They received at least half of their financial support from their child.
They are not eligible for a higher retirement benefit on their own record.
They did not remarry after their child’s death.

Eligible parents—including biological, adoptive, or stepparents (if they became the worker’s parent before age 16)—may receive:

82.5% of the deceased worker’s benefit amount for one surviving parent
75% each if there are two surviving parents

SSDI Survivor Benefits for Ex-Spouses

An ex-spouse may qualify for survivor benefits if they were married to the deceased worker for at least 10 years. However, this time requirement doesn’t apply if the ex-spouse is caring for the deceased worker’s biological or legally adopted child who is under 16 or disabled.

An ex-spouse can also remarry at age 60 (or age 50 if disabled) without losing eligibility for survivor benefits.

The benefit amount for an eligible ex-spouse is the same as that for widows and widowers.

If the ex-spouse is…	They will receive this percentage of the deceased worker’s benefit amount:
Full retirement age or older	100 percent
Between ages 60 and full retirement age	71.5 – 99 percent
Disabled and between the ages of 50 and 59	71.5 percent
Caring for a child younger than 16 years of age	75 percent

SSDI Eligibility Requirements for Service Members

Service members may qualify for SSDI if they have a disability and are not engaged in substantial work. Those who became disabled while on active duty on or after October 1, 2001, may receive an expedited application process, regardless of where the disability occurred.

SSDI is separate from Veterans Affairs (VA) disability benefits, but you can apply for and receive both—just note that they require separate applications.

You can remain on active duty and still receive SSDI, provided your work does not result in substantial pay or profit. The SSA will review your situation to determine eligibility, and if your occupation changes, you’ll need to provide one of the following:

Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)
Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC)
Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC)

Family members of qualifying service members may also be eligible if they meet these criteria:

Spouses: Age 62 or older, or any age if caring for a child under 16 or a child with a disability
Unmarried children: Under 18 (or under 19 if full-time students), or 18 and older if the disability began before age 22
Ex-spouses: Age 62 or older, married to the service member for at least 10 years, and currently unmarried

Maximum Family SSDI Benefit Amount

There’s a limit to how much a family can receive based on one disabled worker’s Social Security record. This amount depends on the worker’s benefit and the number of family members who qualify.

Typically, the maximum is 85% of the worker’s average indexed monthly earnings (AIME), but it can’t be less than 150% of the Primary Insurance Amount (PIA)—the amount a person receives when they reach retirement age.

The PIA is calculated using three different percentage brackets of the worker’s AIME. For a worker who turns 62 or dies in 2025 before reaching that age, the total family benefit cannot exceed any of the following:

150% of the first $1,567 of the PIA
272% of the PIA between $1,567 and $2,262
134% of the PIA between $2,262 and $2,950
175% of the PIA over $2,950

The final total is rounded down to the nearest $0.10. Learn more about how AIME is calculated here: https://www.ssa.gov/oact/cola/familymax.html

SSDI Benefit Payments Overview

The amount you receive from SSDI depends on several factors, including your work history, earnings, and how much you’ve paid into Social Security. These benefits are calculated individually, so payment amounts can vary from person to person.

Factors That Can Affect Your SSDI Benefit Amount

Several key factors influence how much you receive in SSDI benefits:

Income: Your benefit is based on your lifetime average earnings from jobs covered by Social Security—those where you paid Social Security taxes.
Other public benefits: If you receive certain government benefits, your SSDI payments may be reduced until you reach full retirement age. These include:
- Workers’ compensation
- Pensions from jobs not covered by Social Security (like government or foreign employment)
- Other federal, state, or local disability benefits not related to your job

If you receive SSDI along with any of the above, your total benefits generally can’t exceed 80% of your average earnings before your disability.

Your SSDI benefit amount will not be reduced if you receive:

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Private pensions or private insurance benefits

There are also limits to benefit amounts.

How to Estimate the SSDI Benefit Amount

If you’ve applied for SSDI, the Social Security Administration will send you a benefit statement showing your estimated monthly payment. If you haven’t received one yet, you can access it online by creating a free mySocialSecurity account: https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/

To create an account, you must:
Have a Social Security number
Have a valid email address
Have a U.S. mailing address
Be 18 or older

You can only create an account for yourself—doing so for someone else, even with permission, is not allowed and may result in penalties.

Another way to estimate your benefit is by using the SSA’s benefit calculator. Access it here: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/AnypiaApplet.html

To use it, you’ll need:

Your date of birth
The age you plan to retire (or have retired)
Your annual earnings for each year worked
Your expected earnings for the current year

Once you enter this information, the calculator will show your estimated monthly payments for disability, retirement, and survivor benefits, along with any benefits your family may qualify for.

SSDI Benefit Payment Schedule

Your SSDI payment date is determined by your date of birth. The schedule below shows when benefits will be paid in 2025:

Date of Birth	Benefits Paid
1st through 10th day of the month	Every 2nd Wednesday of the month
11th through 20th day of the month	Every 3rd Wednesday of the month
21st through 31st day of the month	Every 4th Wednesday of the month

How to Apply for SSDI Benefits

To receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration, you’ll need to complete an application. Depending on your situation, you can apply in one of three ways:

Online
By phone
In person

Documents and Information You’ll Need to Apply for SSDI

When applying for SSDI, you’ll need to provide specific documents and detailed personal information. Having these ready can make the process smoother.

Required documents:

Birth certificate or proof of birth
Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status
U.S. military discharge papers (if you served before 1968)
W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns from the previous year
Adult Disability Report with details on your medical condition and work history
Medical records, provider reports, and recent test results
Award letters, pay stubs, or other proof of workers’ compensation or similar benefits
Banking or direct deposit information

Information you’ll need to provide:

Your name, gender, and Social Security Number (SSN)
Name at birth (if different), date, and place of birth
Marital status and spouse’s name, birth date, and SSN
Details about former spouses (names, birth dates, SSNs, marriage dates, and how marriages ended)
Names of unmarried children under 18, or ages 18–19, still in school
Names of unmarried children disabled before age 22
Whether a child under 3 lived with you during a year you had no earnings
Whether a parent depended on you for half of their support when your disability began
Whether anyone has filed for Social Security, Medicare, or SSI on your behalf
Any other Social Security Numbers you’ve used
Active military service details (if before 1968)
Whether you or your spouse worked in the railroad industry
Any Social Security credits earned in another country
Information on pensions or annuities from government work
Date you became unable to work, and whether you’re still working
Workers’ compensation details
Annual earnings from 1978 to present and employer names
Whether you’ve received or expect payment from an employer since becoming disabled
Any felony charges or outstanding arrest warrants

How to Apply for SSDI Online

You can apply for SSDI benefits online if you meet all of the following requirements:

You are at least 18 years old
You are not currently receiving benefits on your own Social Security record
You cannot work due to a medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
You have not been denied disability benefits in the past 60 days

If you qualify, follow these steps to complete your online application:

Visit the Disability Benefit Application portal: https://secure.ssa.gov/iClaim/dib
Sign in to your mySocialSecurity account. If you don’t have one, create a free account here: https://secure.ssa.gov/RIL/SiView.action
Gather all required documents and information before starting
Enter your details as prompted and complete each section of the application

The online application typically takes 1 to 2 hours to complete. You can save your progress and return later if needed. After submitting, the SSA will send you a confirmation of your application by email or mail.

How to Apply for SSDI by Phone

You can apply for SSDI benefits over the phone by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call the SSA’s TTY line at 1-800-325-0778 for assistance.

How to Apply for SSDI in Person

You can apply for SSDI benefits by visiting your local Social Security office. Use this SSA search tool (https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp) to find the office closest to you by ZIP code.

Note: It’s recommended to call ahead and schedule an appointment before your visit.

How to Check Your SSDI Application Status

After submitting your SSDI application, you can track its progress online through your mySocialSecurity account. Here’s how:

Sign in to your mySocialSecurity account: https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/
Scroll down to the “Your Benefit Applications” section
Click “View Details” under the “More Info” heading.
Go to the “Current Status” section to see updates on your application.

How the SSDI Disability Determination Process Works

Once you apply for SSDI, the Social Security Administration reviews your case to decide if you meet the eligibility requirements. Your application is evaluated based on your medical condition, your past work experience, and whether you’re likely to return to work in the future.

How SSA Field Offices and DDS Process SSDI Claims

When you apply for SSDI, your claim first goes to your local SSA field office, where staff verify all nonmedical information in your application. Once that step is complete, your file is sent to a Disability Determination Services (DDS) office.

DDS offices—which operate as state agencies—review the medical details of your case. They collect evidence from your healthcare providers, and if that information is unavailable or incomplete, they may schedule a consultative examination (CE) to gather more details.

After reviewing your medical eligibility, DDS returns the claim to the SSA field office. If approved, the SSA calculates your benefit amount and begins payments. If denied, your application remains on file in case you decide to appeal.

When You’ll Receive Your Determination Letter

It usually takes about three to five months to receive a determination letter after applying for SSDI. The exact timing depends on how quickly the SSA and DDS can review and verify your information. If your condition qualifies for a Compassionate Allowance (CAL) or Quick Disability Determination (QDD), your application may be processed much faster.

SSDI Waiting Period

If you’re approved for SSDI, your first payment will arrive in the sixth month after your disability begins. This five-month waiting period applies to all beneficiaries, even if your claim is expedited through a Compassionate Allowance or Quick Disability Determination.

SSDI Denials and the Appeals Process

If your SSDI application is denied and you believe it was an error, you have the right to appeal the decision. The process for appealing depends on the reason for the denial, and understanding those reasons can help you decide your next steps.

Common Reasons SSDI Applications Are Denied

Your SSDI application may be denied for either medical or non-medical reasons. A medical denial occurs if your condition doesn’t meet the SSA’s definition of a disability. Non-medical denials may happen if:

You applied as a spouse, child, or other recipient type, and don’t meet eligibility requirements
You don’t have enough work credits to qualify
Your application is missing required documents or information

The SSDI Appeals Process

If your SSDI claim is denied, you have 60 days from the date you receive your denial notice to file an appeal. There are four levels in the appeals process:

Reconsideration
Hearing
Appeals Council Review
Federal Court

You must begin with a reconsideration. If you’re still denied, you can move through each level in order. Appeals can be started online through the Medical or Non-Medical Appeal portals, or by mail. The steps for requesting an appeal are the same at all four levels.

How to File a Reconsideration Appeal Online

If your SSDI application is denied, you can submit a reconsideration appeal online. You’re also allowed to appoint a representative to help with or complete the appeal on your behalf.

You’ll need to provide the following basic information:

Full name
Social Security Number
Address and phone number
Date of birth

If your denial was for medical reasons, additional details are required:

Name of your legal representative (if applicable)
Contact information for a friend or relative familiar with your condition
Updates or changes to your medical condition
Details about any new medical conditions
Names, contact information, and visit dates for all healthcare providers
Medications, reasons for use, side effects, and prescribing provider
Changes in daily activities, work, or education
Any documents supporting your condition or changes

Once you’ve gathered all necessary information, follow these steps:

Visit the appeal portal:
- Medical Denial Appeal: https://secure.ssa.gov/iApplsRe/start
- Non-Medical Denial Appeal: https://secure.ssa.gov/iApplNMD/start
Click “Start a New Appeal.”
Agree to the Electronic Appeals Terms of Service.
Enter all required information as prompted.
Upload any supporting documents in the designated sections.

The medical appeal process form typically takes 40–60 minutes, while a non-medical appeal takes 10–15 minutes. Only medical appeals allow you to save and return later.

How to File a Reconsideration Appeal in Writing

You can also request a reconsideration by submitting your appeal in writing. This can be done in two ways: by writing a letter or by completing the official appeal form.

Letter: Write a letter to the SSA explaining why you disagree with the decision. Be sure to include your Social Security Number.
Form: Download and complete the Disability Report – Appeal (Form 3441)(https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ssa-3441.pdf), then mail or deliver it to your local SSA field office. You can find your nearest office using the SSA Office Locator: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp

If you’re unable to download the form, you can request a copy by calling the SSA toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Moving to the Next Stage of the Appeals Process

The first step in appealing a denied SSDI claim is requesting a reconsideration. During this stage, someone who was not involved in your original application will review your case. They’ll look at the information you submitted initially, along with any new evidence you provided during the appeal.

Once the reconsideration is complete, the SSA will send you a letter with the decision. If you disagree with the outcome, you can move on to the next level of appeal: a hearing.

What Happens at an SSDI Hearing

A hearing is the second stage of the SSDI appeals process. It’s conducted by an administrative law judge who was not involved in your original decision or reconsideration. Most hearings are held by phone or video, but in-person hearings—typically scheduled within 75 miles of your home—are also possible. The judge will let you know the location or format in advance.

This is your opportunity to present additional evidence or bring witnesses, such as medical experts, to support your case. You might also be asked to provide more documentation to clarify details from your application.

You’re not always required to attend. If you’re unable or prefer not to participate, contact the SSA before the hearing date. They’ll let you know if your presence is necessary.

After the hearing, you’ll receive a written decision from the judge. If you disagree with the outcome, you can move to the next stage: an Appeals Council review.

What an Appeals Council Review Involves

An Appeals Council review is the third stage of the SSDI appeals process. At this point, the Council examines your case to decide whether the decision from your hearing was made correctly.

If the Council agrees with the hearing’s outcome, it may deny your request for review. If it chooses to review your case, it can either:

Make a new decision itself, or
Send your case back to a different administrative law judge for further review

You’ll receive a letter explaining the outcome, whether that’s a denial, a new decision, or an order for additional review. If you disagree with the Appeals Council’s action, you can take your case to the final level of appeal: filing a federal court lawsuit.

Filing a Federal Court Lawsuit for SSDI

A federal court lawsuit is the final step in the SSDI appeals process. If you’ve completed all three previous levels of appeal and still believe your claim was wrongly denied, you can file a lawsuit in a U.S. district court within 60 days of receiving your Appeals Council decision letter. That letter will include instructions on how to proceed.

You must file the lawsuit in the district court for the judicial district where you live. If no district court serves your location, you can file in the district that serves Washington, D.C.

Once you file your complaint, you’re required to send the SSA copies of the complaint and the court-issued summons. These documents must be sent via certified or registered mail to the Office of the General Counsel (OGC) responsible for your district. You can find the full list of OGC office addresses here: https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/poms.nsf/links/0203106020

Continuing Participation in the SSDI Program

Once you’re approved for SSDI, there are certain requirements you must continue to meet to keep receiving your benefits.

Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs)

To keep receiving SSDI benefits, your disability must remain ongoing and continue to limit your ability to work. The Social Security Administration regularly reviews your case through Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to ensure you still qualify. There are two main types of CDRs:

Work reviews
Medical reviews

Work Reviews

In a work review, the SSA reviews all income you earn to ensure it stays within SSDI limits. Your earnings must remain below a set threshold to confirm that your disability continues to limit your ability to work and earn wages.

Medical Reviews

In a medical review, the SSA examines your condition to confirm that it still meets the official definition of a disability and continues to prevent you from working.

Exemptions for CDRs

You won’t have to undergo a medical review based solely on your work activity if you’ve been receiving disability benefits for at least 24 months or if you’re participating in the Ticket to Work program. This means changes in your work or income won’t trigger a medical review each time, though you’ll still need to complete regularly scheduled reviews.

To stay exempt while in the Ticket to Work program, your ticket status must show “in use.” If your status is any of the following, you will still be subject to a medical review:

Eligible
Mailed
Assigned–Not in Use
Not in Use
Not Assigned–Not in Use
Terminated

When Reviews Can End Your SSDI Benefits

After a review, the SSA will decide whether you still meet the SSDI requirements. Your benefits may be terminated for either of the following reasons:

Substantial work: Your average monthly earnings reach $1,620 or more (or $2,700 or more if you are blind).
Medical improvement: Your condition has improved enough that you no longer meet the SSA’s definition of disability.

How to Prepare for Your CDR

Before a Continuing Disability Review, the SSA will send you a letter notifying you of the upcoming review. Your local Social Security office will then contact you with details and request information about your medical treatments and any work you’ve done since receiving SSDI benefits.

To make the process smoother, gather medical records, reports, and other documentation from your healthcare providers in advance. Having this information ready can help prevent delays during the review.

How Employment Affects SSDI Benefits

The Social Security Administration offers work programs and incentives designed to help you return to or maintain employment while still receiving SSDI benefits. If you decide to work, it’s important to ensure your earnings stay within program limits so you don’t lose eligibility.

Working While Receiving SSDI Benefits

If you want to return to work while receiving SSDI, you’re allowed a trial work period of at least nine months. This lets you test your ability to work with your condition while still receiving your full benefits, as long as you report your earnings to the SSA.

In 2025, any month you earn more than $1,160 counts as a trial work month. If you’re self-employed, it’s any month you earn over $1,110 after expenses or work more than 80 hours. The trial period ends once you’ve worked nine months within a 60-month window.

After the trial period, you enter a 36-month extended eligibility period, during which you can still receive SSDI for any month your earnings are not substantial (below $1,620).

Note: If your earnings remain below the substantial level in the 37th month, you’ll continue receiving benefits until your income exceeds the limit or your condition improves.

If you need specific items or services to help you work with your disability, the cost of those impairment-related work expenses (IRWEs) can be deducted from your monthly earnings. This deduction can help keep your income below the substantial gainful activity limit, allowing you to continue receiving SSDI.

Examples of approved IRWEs include:

Special transportation
Medical supplies
Medical devices
Service animals
Provider visits related to preparing for work
Counseling services
Job coaching services

Reporting Requirements When Working on SSDI

If you work while receiving SSDI, you’re required to inform the SSA whenever any of the following happens:

You start or stop working
Your hours or wages change
Your job duties change
You begin paying for impairment-related work expenses (IRWEs)

You can report these changes to the SSA using one of the following methods.

Report Changes Online

You can report your monthly wages through your mySocialSecurity online account. Log in here: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount to submit your updates. Once you’ve reported your changes, you’ll receive a receipt confirming that the SSA has received your information.

Report Changes by Phone

You can report work changes by calling the SSA toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 or 1-800-325-0778 (TTY). Representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Report Changes in Person

You can also report work changes by visiting your local SSA field office. Use the office locator tool to find the location nearest you: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp

Note: It’s best to call ahead and schedule an appointment before visiting.

The Ticket to Work Program

The Ticket to Work program offers free employment services to SSDI recipients who want to explore returning to work. It’s designed to help you prepare for employment, find a job, or keep meaningful work once you’re hired. Through this program, you can access:

Career counseling
Vocational rehabilitation
Job placement services
Career training

Visit the Ticket to Work website for more details: https://www.ssa.gov/work/

When you join the program, you’ll assign your employment “ticket” to an Employment Network (EN) of your choice. The EN provides the services listed above and helps you set and work toward specific employment goals to reduce your dependence on SSDI benefits.

Eligibility for the Ticket to Work Program

To take part in the Ticket to Work program, you must meet these requirements:

Be 18 to 64 years old
Be receiving SSDI or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits

Your chosen Employment Network (EN) will verify your eligibility. You don’t need a physical “ticket” to start—just call the Ticket to Work program at 1-866-968-7842 (TTY: 1-866-833-2967) to confirm your eligibility.

How to Enroll in the Ticket to Work Program

To get started, call the Ticket to Work hotline at 1-866-968-7842 (TTY: 1-866-833-2967) to verify your eligibility. A representative will explain how the program works and answer your questions. You can also request a list of Employment Networks (ENs) in your area by mail or choose to search for providers on your own.

How to Find Ticket to Work Providers

Once you’ve verified your eligibility through the Ticket to Work hotline, the next step is selecting a provider to partner with. You’ll have several options, each offering different services and support to help you reach your employment goals.

Employment Networks (ENs)

Employment Networks (ENs) are public or private organizations that partner with Social Security to offer free employment support services to people with disabilities. Some ENs serve only local communities, while others work with state agencies to provide broader access to resources and support.

Workforce Agencies (WAs)

Workforce Agencies (WAs) are Employment Networks that partner with state programs as part of the public workforce system. They may be run by a state workforce agency or Workforce Investment Board (WIB), or locally by an American Job Center or local WIB.

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Agencies

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies operate at the state level and provide a broad range of services. In addition to job-focused support, they emphasize rehabilitation services to help you work toward greater independence.

The table below highlights the different types of providers you can work with through the Ticket to Work program and the kinds of services each one offers.

	Employment Networks (EN)	Workforce Agencies (WA)	State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Agencies
Work Incentives Counseling	✔	✔	✔
Career Planning	✔	✔	✔
Job Search/ Placement	✔	✔	✔
Continuing Employment Support	✔	✔	✔
Training Programs	✘	✔	✔
Assistance With Accommodations	✔	✔	✔
Special Veteran and Youth Programs	✘	✔	✔
Tuition Support for College Coursework	✘	✘	✔
Rehabilitation Services	✘	✘	✔

If you’re unsure which type of provider is the best fit for your needs, the SSA offers a guided search tool that asks a few questions and helps match you with the right provider. Access the guided search here: http://app.keysurvey.com/f/1142311/133f/

Once you know the type of provider you want to work with, you can use the SSA’s direct search tool to find options near you. Access the direct search tool here: https://choosework.ssa.gov/findhelp/result?p_sort=alphabetical&option=2&resStr=en,wf&p_pagesize=25&p_pagenum=1

Assigning Your Ticket

Once you’ve chosen a provider, you’ll need to assign your Ticket to them to start receiving free employment services. The provider handles the assignment process and notifies the SSA. To assign your Ticket, contact the provider directly and let them know you’d like to use their services. They’ll first verify that your Ticket isn’t already assigned to someone else.

Unassigning Your Ticket

If you’ve already assigned your Ticket but want to switch providers, you can do so at any time by completing the Ticket Unassignment Form here: https://choosework.ssa.gov/Assets/cw/docs-materials/Ticket-Unassignment-Form.pdf

Note: To keep your exemption from Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs), you must reassign your Ticket to a new provider within 90 days of submitting the form.

SSDI Fraud

When applying for Social Security benefits, you’re legally required to provide truthful and accurate information throughout the application. Knowingly providing false details, misrepresenting yourself, or withholding information is considered fraud, which is a criminal offense. Committing SSDI fraud can lead to fines, imprisonment, or both.

How to Report SSDI Fraud

If you suspect SSDI fraud, it’s important to report it to the SSA right away.

By phone: Call the Office of the Inspector General’s fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271.
Online: Submit a report on the Office of the Inspector General’s website: https://oig.ssa.gov

You can choose to remain anonymous (the SSA won’t contact you) or confidential (they can follow up but won’t share your identity).

If you don’t remain anonymous, you’ll need to provide:

Your name
Valid email address
10-digit phone number
Home address
Social Security Number
Name of the person or business suspected of fraud
A summary of the alleged fraud

Penalties for SSDI Fraud

The penalties for committing SSDI fraud vary based on the type and severity of the offense. They may include:

Up to 5 years in prison
Up to 10 years in prison for individuals in positions of trust (such as providers, SSA employees, claimant representatives, or translators)
Fines of up to $250,000
Both imprisonment and a fine

Those found guilty may also be required to pay restitution—repaying any fraudulently received benefits to the Commissioner of Social Security.

By Admin – October 2025