What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
SSDI is a federal program run by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that pays monthly benefits to people who cannot work due to a qualifying medical condition. You earn eligibility through work credits — generally 40 credits, 20 of which must have been earned in the last 10 years.
Do I need a lawyer to apply for SSDI?
No. The SSA allows anyone to apply directly at ssa.gov/disability or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Lawyers are sometimes hired for appeals, but the initial application is designed to be completed without legal help. uplaw.ai handles the forms for you at no cost to start.
Am I eligible to apply for SSDI?
You are eligible if you have a medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death, you cannot perform your previous work or any other substantial work, and you have enough work credits. The SSA's Blue Book lists every qualifying condition.
What forms do I need to file an SSDI application?
The main form is SSA-3368 (Disability Report — Adult). You will also need SSA-827 (Authorization to Disclose Information) so the SSA can pull your medical records, and SSA-3369 (Work History Report) if you worked in the past 15 years.
How do I apply for SSDI online without a lawyer?
Go to ssa.gov/applyfordisability, create a my Social Security account, and complete the online application. You can save and return at any time. The online process typically takes 1–2 hours. uplaw.ai walks you through every field.
What medical evidence does the SSA require?
The SSA needs medical records from every doctor, hospital, clinic, or therapist you have seen for your condition — lab results, imaging reports, and treatment notes covering the full period of your disability. List your providers on SSA-3368 and the SSA will request records directly.
How long does an SSDI application take to process?
Initial decisions take 3–6 months on average. The SSA sends your case to your state's Disability Determination Services (DDS) office, which reviews your medical evidence and makes the first decision. You will receive a written notice by mail.
What happens if the SSA denies my SSDI application?
Most initial applications are denied — this is normal. You have 60 days from the denial notice to request Reconsideration, a second review by a different DDS examiner. File SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration) online at ssa.gov or at your local SSA office.
How do I appeal a Social Security disability denial?
The four levels of appeal are: Reconsideration (SSA-561), Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (SSA-501), Appeals Council Review (SSA-520), and Federal Court. Most successful appeals are won at the ALJ hearing level, which averages 12–18 months after the request.
What is an ALJ hearing and how do I prepare?
An Administrative Law Judge hearing is a formal review where you present testimony and evidence. Request it by filing SSA-501 within 60 days of your Reconsideration denial. Bring updated medical records, a work history statement, and be ready to explain how your condition limits daily activities.
Can I receive back pay if my SSDI claim is approved?
Yes. SSDI back pay covers benefits from your established onset date minus the mandatory 5-month waiting period. If your case took 2 years to approve, you could receive a lump sum covering nearly 2 years of benefits paid all at once.
What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is need-based and available to people with limited income regardless of work history. You may qualify for both programs at the same time.
How do I check the status of my SSDI application?
Log in to your my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount, call 1-800-772-1213, or visit your local Social Security office. The SSA also mails status letters at each decision stage — initial decision, reconsideration, and ALJ hearing.
Free to start
Ready to file? Tell uplaw.ai what's going on.
No account required. uplaw.ai identifies the right SSA forms, walks you through every field, and builds the strongest possible application.