Help exists if you become disabled and unable to work. When a person's disability prevents her from leading a normal life, Social Security Disability Insurance and Social Security Supplemental Security Income are the two governmental programs that may assist. Filing and reviewing a disability claim is a lengthy process and checking the claims status often is a good idea. Private disability insurance is available through insurance companies when a short and long-term disability occurs. Available as a stand-alone policy or through an employer, disability coverage replaces a portion of income if you are unable to work.
Step
Go to the Social Security Online website and locate the "Application Status Information." Input your Social Security number and your confirmation number and click "Next" to obtain the status on your disability claims. This only checks your Social Security disability application, not SSI. You should wait at least 5 days from the date of filing to check the status.
Step
Call Social Security at (800) 772-1213 or TTY number, (800) 325-0778 to inquire about your Social Security or SSI disability claim status. A representative will provide you information if you call from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. An automated system will provide information after normal business hours.
Step
Visit your regional Social Security field office in person or contact them by phone for a status update. To find your local office, refer to the Social Security website (see Resources) and complete a search by ZIP code.
Step
Call your state's disability determination services agency. The DDS receives funding from the federal government and is the state decision maker on your disability claim. Ask a representative in your regional Social Security office for this phone number. DDS may have the most current information about your disability claim. You may be able to speak to the claims examiner responsible for making the determination.
Step
Call your disability insurance carrier to obtain status updates on any short or long-term disability claims filed. These claims are independent of any governmental claims and are submitted if you have an individual or group disability insurance policy. You can likely obtain claims status through the insurance company's website.
