You’ve submitted your Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) application — now what?
If you’re like most people, you’re probably wondering how long the wait will be and what you should do in the meantime.
Waiting for a decision on your disability claim can take several months — or even longer if you need to appeal. But don’t worry — there are important things you can do while you wait that can help your case and protect your well-being.
1. Keep Going to Your Medical Appointments
✅ This is the #1 most important thing you can do.
Social Security decides your case based on medical evidence. If you stop seeing your doctor, they may assume:
- You’re feeling better
- Your condition isn’t serious
- You’re not following medical advice
Ongoing treatment shows that your condition is real, serious, and still affecting your life.
💡 Tip: If you’re having trouble affording care, look for low-cost or sliding-scale clinics in your area — and keep a record of where you’ve tried to get help.
2. Stay in Touch With Social Security
Make sure SSA can reach you by phone or mail. If they send you forms, exam appointments, or requests for more information, respond quickly.
✅ Missing a deadline or failing to show up for a Consultative Exam could cause your claim to be denied.
If you move or change phone numbers, notify SSA right away.
3. Keep a Symptom Journal
Keeping a daily or weekly journal is a great way to document your condition. You can record:
- Pain levels
- Medication side effects
- Mental health symptoms
- Trouble sleeping, focusing, or functioning
- Days when your condition prevented you from doing everyday tasks
✅ This information can help your doctors and strengthen your case during appeals or hearings.
4. Gather and Organize Your Medical Records
If you didn’t include all your records with your initial application, you can still submit additional evidence while your claim is being reviewed.
✅ Ask your doctors for updated records or test results
✅ If you’ve started seeing new providers, notify SSA
✅ Make a list of all hospitals, clinics, and doctors you’ve visited
Being organized now can save you time if you have to appeal later.
5. Consider Talking With a Disability Lawyer or Advocate
Even if you filed your claim on your own, it’s not too late to get help.
A disability attorney or advocate can:
- Track your claim
- Submit medical evidence
- Talk to SSA on your behalf
- Help prepare you for appeals or hearings
✅ Most disability attorneys only get paid if you win, and their fees are capped by law.
6. Learn What to Expect Next
Understanding the steps in the disability process can reduce stress. While you wait:
- Review your claim’s status at ssa.gov/myaccount
- Learn about the appeals process in case you’re denied
- Read up on how to strengthen your case if it moves to the next stage
Knowledge is power — and staying informed puts you in a stronger position.
7. Take Care of Yourself
Waiting for benefits can be emotionally and financially stressful.
Make sure you’re:
- Getting support from family, friends, or a counselor
- Staying as active as your condition allows
- Looking into local resources like food assistance, housing help, or Medicaid
💡 Many communities have support services available for people waiting for disability benefits — don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Final Thoughts
Waiting for a decision on your SSD or SSI claim can be frustrating, but you’re not powerless during this time.
By continuing your treatment, staying in contact with SSA, documenting your symptoms, and preparing for next steps, you’ll be in a much stronger position — no matter what the outcome is.
✅ And remember: A denial isn’t the end of the road — most successful claims are approved on appeal.
If you ever feel stuck, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. You don’t have to go through this alone.