What to Expect After You Submit Your SSD Application

Submitting your Social Security Disability (SSD) application is a big step — but what happens next?

The waiting can feel stressful, especially if you don’t know what to expect. As SSD experts, we’re here to walk you through the process in simple, clear language, so you feel prepared for every stage after you apply.

Step 1: Application Review (1–2 Weeks)

After you submit your SSD application, the Social Security Administration (SSA) first reviews it for completeness.

They check to make sure:

  • You provided all the necessary personal and work information
  • You meet the basic requirements (such as having enough work credits)

👉 If something is missing, SSA may contact you early on to request more information. Be sure to respond quickly to avoid delays!

Step 2: Transfer to Disability Determination Services (DDS)

Once your application is complete, it gets sent to a state agency called Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS is the group that actually decides if you are disabled according to Social Security’s rules.

At DDS, a claims examiner and a medical professional will:

  • Review your medical records
  • Look at your work history
  • Evaluate your daily limitations
  • Decide whether you qualify for benefits

Step 3: Gathering Medical Evidence (1–3 Months)

DDS will request copies of your medical records from:

  • Doctors
  • Hospitals
  • Clinics
  • Therapists

If your medical records are complete and strong, this step can move fairly quickly.
If records are missing or slow to arrive, it can cause big delays.

✅ Tip:
Let your doctors know you’ve applied for SSD and ask them to send your records quickly if contacted.

Step 4: Consultative Exam (If Needed)

Sometimes DDS doesn’t get enough medical evidence from your doctors. If that happens, they may schedule you for a Consultative Exam (CE) — a short medical evaluation with a doctor chosen by Social Security.

  • The CE is not for treatment — it’s just an exam to assess your condition.
  • The doctor sends a report back to DDS to help them make a decision.

💡 Important:
Always attend your Consultative Exam if scheduled. Missing it can cause your claim to be denied!

Step 5: Decision Is Made

Once all the evidence is reviewed, DDS will make a decision:

  • If approved: SSA will calculate your benefits and send you an award letter.
  • If denied: You’ll get a denial letter explaining why and telling you how to appeal if you choose.

The full process can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months — and sometimes longer, depending on:

  • How complex your case is
  • How quickly your doctors respond
  • Whether you needed a Consultative Exam

Step 6: If Approved — What Happens Next

If you’re approved:

  • You’ll start receiving monthly payments based on your earnings record.
  • You may receive back pay for the months you were disabled before you applied.
  • You’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare after a 24-month waiting period (starting from your disability date, not your approval date).

SSA will send you detailed information about your payment schedule and Medicare start date.

Step 7: If Denied — Don’t Panic!

If you’re denied, you’re not alone — most people are denied at the first stage.

✅ You have 60 days to file an appeal called a Request for Reconsideration.
✅ If denied again, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge.

Many people win their benefits at the appeal or hearing level, so it’s important not to give up.

Final Thoughts

After you submit your SSD application, the most important things you can do are:

  • Keep going to your medical appointments
  • Respond quickly to any requests from Social Security
  • Be patient — the process takes time
  • Get expert help if you’re unsure about your next steps

Applying for disability benefits isn’t easy, but knowing what to expect helps make the wait less stressful. You don’t have to go through it alone — there’s help available if you need it.