If you become disabled and cannot work, apply for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration immediately. Your claim may take a long time to be processed. According to the Social Security Administration's Frequently Asked Questions, you will only receive benefits six months after your claim has been approved. You can check the status of your claim at any time; however, it is not likely to be approved or denied before at least one to two months have passed.
Call or go to your local Social Security Office to ask about the status of your claim. To find your local office, enter your zip code into the Social Security Administration's website office locator (see Resources).
Call the toll-free number (800-772-1213) to check on your claim if you have trouble finding your local Social Security Office.
Check with your state agency. After you file a claim, it is sent to your state's Disability Determination Services (DDS) office. Ask to speak with the examiner who is working on your claim. He can give you more specific information regarding your claim's status, such as whether your medical records have been received yet.
