If a health condition is keeping you from work, Social Security disability help starts with a clear next step. Prepare to discuss an application, denial or reapplication.
For new or denied claims. Already receiving SSDI or SSI? Use SSA's benefit services instead.
Call if all three are true:
No recent work of your own, or applying for SSI only? SSA can help you directly at ssa.gov.
Lines open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm Eastern.
A call does not file a claim, extend a deadline or release benefit payments.
Optional tools. No contact details needed.
You can skip the ZIP check.
This does not confirm eligibility or approval. SSA makes benefit decisions.
Have any SSA notice and key work dates nearby. A case review can help you understand questions to ask before deciding on representation.
Read SSA's disability guidance.
SSDI is based on covered work and work credits. You generally need enough recent work; the credit rules depend on your age. Younger workers may need fewer credits. SSA work rules [1].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources who have a disability, are blind or are 65 or older. No work credits are required; other rules apply. SSA's SSI overview.
For adult disability claims, SSA generally requires a condition that prevents substantial work and has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 consecutive months or result in death. It also considers whether you can do past work or adjust to other work.
An appeal is generally due within 60 days of receiving the decision. Check your notice for the deadline and instructions. Do not assume starting a new application replaces an appeal. SSA appeal rules [3].
Be ready to discuss your claim stage, work history and SSA notices. Ask who is taking the call, whether an attorney will review your case, and what fees or expenses apply before agreeing to representation. Keep a copy of any denial letter and a list of treatment providers for that conversation. Do not enter medical details or a Social Security number on this page.
No. The check matches a place in a downloaded postal directory. It does not evaluate your health, work credits, income or resources. It does not confirm attorney coverage. A directory can be incomplete or out of date; you can continue without a match. Benefit rules can differ by location, including U.S. territories.
No. SSA's duration rule includes a condition expected to last at least a year or result in death. You do not have to wait for a year to pass before applying. Your medical evidence and all other requirements still matter. Read SSA's disability definition.
Yes. You can apply for benefits directly, free, at ssa.gov. You do not need to use this site or hire a representative to apply. This page is general information, not legal advice or an SSA application.
Ask for a written explanation before agreeing. SSA generally must authorize fees for representation before the agency. Out-of-pocket expenses may be separate. Do not assume every cost is waived if benefits are denied. This page makes no fee offer. Read SSA's fee-agreement guidance [5].
This case-review offer is not for current beneficiaries. For payment questions, benefit letters or reporting changes, go to SSA's benefit-management page. This exclusion is about this offer, not a statement that you cannot get help elsewhere.
Read the notice and contact SSA promptly about your options. You can ask for an extension and explain why you were late; SSA decides whether to allow it. A website ZIP check or intake call is not an appeal and does not protect a deadline. Read SSA's appeal-time guidance.