Can I Check My Disability Status Online?
If you’ve applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), keeping track of your application status is critical. Many applicants want to know: How do I check my disability claim status online? How long does it take for a decision? In this guide, we’ll explain step-by-step how to track your claim, what your online status means, and when to call a disability advocate for help.
You Can Check the Status of Your Social Security Disability Claim Online
What your application status shows when you check your status online, you can find:
- Your re-entry number for your online application or appeal that hasn’t been submitted
- The date Social Security received your application or appeal
- Your scheduled hearing date and time
- The location of your application or appeal including the
- address of the office processing your application
- If a decision has been made
Understanding Your Status Updates
When you log in, you may see terms like “pending,” “in review,” or “decision made.” Knowing what these statuses mean can help you understand whether Social Security is waiting on medical records, scheduling a hearing, or preparing a decision.
How to Check Your Disability Application Status Online
You must sign into your “my Social Security” account. You cannot check the status of your claim online if you don’t have an account.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Select “View Details” to check your application status.
- Scroll down to the “Your Benefit Application” section.
How to Create a “my Social Security” Account
Social Security asks for specific information to create an online account. You can only create an account for yourself, you cannot create one for another person.
You will need:
- Firstly, A valid email address
- Secondly, Your social security number
- Thirdly, A U.S. mailing address
- You must be at least 18 years old
Tip: Both SSDI and SSI applicants can create an account to track their claims. Your account also allows you to view your earnings history, estimate retirement benefits, and update personal information.
Other Ways to Check Your Application Status
If you cannot access your application online, you can also:
- Call your local Social Security office
- Call Social Security’s national number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778), available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Call the claims adjudicator assigned to your case
You can also use the Social Security Office Locator to find your nearest office.
Why Should I Check My Disability Status Online?
Checking your disability status online is important so you can:
- Make sure Social Security has all the paperwork to process your application or receives your medical records
- Avoid missing any deadlines to appeal your claim if you are denied
- Understand how long it might take to get a decision
Timeline insight:
- Initial decisions generally take 3–6 months.
- Reconsideration appeals may take 3–5 months.
- Hearings with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) can take 9 months to over a year, depending on your location.
Filing For Social Security Disability Online Status
Social Security follows many steps before making a decision on your claim. The process can be overwhelming and frustrating if you don’t know how it works:
- You send your disability application to your local Social Security office.
- The local office processes your application.
- Social Security sends your claim to Disability Determination Services or DDS. Shortly after you have been assigned a claim adjudicator, he or she will contact you and provide paperwork regarding your claim.
Disability Status Online: Reconsideration
If Social Security denies your initial application, you can file an appeal for reconsideration. This is the next step in the disability process and can take several months for a decision.
Disability Status Online: Requesting a Hearing
If Social Security denies your reconsideration appeal, you can request a hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
- Your case is sent to the Office of Hearings Operations (OHO)
- OHO assigns an ALJ and sends you a letter with your hearing date, time, and location
- Wait times can vary widely, sometimes taking 9 months to over a year
Benefits of Working with a Disability Advocate
Many people ask, “Do I need an advocate for Social Security Disability?” While you’re not required to have one, having our experienced team on your side can greatly improve your chances of approval. We guide you through every step of the application and appeals process, explain the often-complex Social Security disability rules, and help you gather the right medical records and work history to build a strong claim.
How an experienced disability advocate can help you:
1. Assistance with Social Security Forms
Social Security sends multiple forms requesting information about your daily activities, work history, and medical conditions. Missing or incomplete forms can lead to delays or claim denials. Our team of experienced disability advocates ensure all forms are completed accurately and submitted on time, helping prevent unnecessary setbacks in your claim.
2. Following Up with Social Security
SSA often sends letters indicating missing information or medical records. Our expert disability advocates monitor your claim closely, check its status more thoroughly than an online account or letter, and ensure that all necessary documents are received. This proactive approach helps keep your claim moving and increases the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I check my SSI claim status without a my Social Security account?
A: You can call your local SSA office or the national number at 1-800-772-1213.
Q: How long does it take to get Social Security disability benefits after approval?
A: Typically, 1–3 months after approval, though it may vary depending on your case.
Q: Can someone else check my disability claim status for me?
A: No. Only you can access your online account, though your appointed representative or advocate can contact SSA on your behalf.
Call Now for a Free Case Review, (800) 800-3332
Make sure you start your claim the right way and apply for all the benefits you deserve. Our team of experienced Social Security Disability advocates knows the ins and outs of SSDI and are ready to fight to help you get the benefits you deserve.
Contact us now for a free consultation and expert guidance on your Social Security Disability claim. CLICK HERE for a FREE case evaluation.
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