Applying For Social Security Disability - AARP For your SSDI application to be approved, you must demonstrate severe or total disability: an injury or condition that prevents you from engaging in “substantial gainful activity” (i e , most work) and is expected to last at least one year or result in death Social Security maintains a detailed list of impairments with additional information on how it evaluates disability claims
How Long Before My Social Security Disability Benefits Start? - AARP In November 2025, Social Security's average processing time for a disability benefit application was 197 days, or about 6½ months (That reflects claims for SSDI and Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, the other Social Security–administered benefit for people with disabilities )
10 Facts About Social Security Benefits for Survivors - AARP Here’s what you can do: Tell Congress to strengthen Social Security customer service Find out how AARP is fighting to keep Social Security strong Learn more about what it’s like in Social Security offices around the country right now Get expert advice on Social Security benefits and answers to common questions
Can a Disabled Child Qualify for Social Security Benefits? - AARP You can begin an application online by filing a Child Disability Report, but you’ll have to call Social Security at 800-772-1213 or visit your local SSA office to complete the process Appointments are required for most in-person service at SSA offices, so call ahead to schedule your visit
How Does Medicare Work With SSDI? - AARP In fact, Social Security can pay up to 12 months of retroactive benefits if it determines, based on the medical evidence, that your disability predated your application And those months when you were medically entitled to SSDI but had not yet been approved to receive it count toward the Medicare waiting period
Helping Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits - AARP Social Security pays benefits for people with disabilities under two separate programs, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Applying for either can be complicated and cumbersome, requiring extensive documentation of a claimant's medical condition (and, in the case of SSI, the individual's finances and living arrangements)
Social Security Disability Claim Wait Times Soar - AARP In the late 2010s, it typically took the Social Security Administration (SSA) 110 to 120 days to process an initial application for disability benefits, according to agency data Over the first eight months of the 2024 federal fiscal year, which began Oct 1, the average was 230 days, or more than seven and a half months