Social Security Disability Benefits

The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs are federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities. 

To Apply for Social Security Disability

1. Before you apply, read one of the following starter kits:
   
   1. Adult Disability Starter Kit; or
   2. SSI Child Disability Starter Kit (under 18).
       
2. You can apply for benefits three ways:
   
   1. Online at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability;
   2. By phone at 1-800-772-1213; or
   3. In person at your local Social Security Office.  To find the office nearest you, call 1-800-772-1213 or go to this page and enter your zip code. 

After You Apply

Social Security determines whether you meet the non-medical requirements and will forward your application to the DDS for the medical determination.

The Process For Determining Disability

Click here to learn how DDS determines disability.

For More Information

• Benefits for People with Disabilities
• Benefits for Children with Disabilities