Step 1: Application Submission

The first step in the Social Security Disability process is submitting your application. You can apply for SSDI or SSI benefits through several methods:

• Online: The easiest way to apply is through the SSA’s official website at www.ssa.gov.
• By Phone: You can apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to complete your application over the phone.
• In-Person: If you prefer, you can apply in person at your local Social Security office in Mississippi. To locate the nearest office, use the SSA Office Locator.

When you apply, you'll need to provide detailed medical records, work history, and personal information. Make sure all information is complete and accurate to avoid delays in processing your claim.

Step 2: Initial Review and Evaluation by Disability Determination Services (DDS)

Once you've submitted your application, the Disability Determination Services (DDS) office in Mississippi will begin the review process. DDS is responsible for evaluating your claim and making a determination about your eligibility for benefits. Here's what happens next:

• Medical Evidence: DDS will assess your medical records, including information from your healthcare providers. This can include doctor’s notes, lab results, physical exams, and any other medical documentation that supports your claim.
• Work History and Residual Functional Capacity (RFC): DDS will also review your work history and assess whether your condition prevents you from performing your previous job or any other type of work. They will evaluate your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC), which is a measure of the work you can still do despite your disability.
• Consultative Examination (CE): In some cases, the SSA may require you to undergo a consultative exam by a doctor chosen by the SSA. This exam is conducted to provide additional information about your condition and how it affects your ability to work.

Step 3: The Five-Step Process for Disability Determination

The SSA follows a five-step process to determine if you meet the qualifications for Social Security Disability benefits:

• Step 1: Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): If you are currently working and earning above a certain income threshold (known as the SGA limit, which is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025), your claim may be denied because the SSA may determine that you are not disabled.
• Step 2: Severe Condition: Your condition must be severe enough to limit your ability to do basic work tasks. The SSA will evaluate the severity of your condition, including how it affects your daily activities and ability to perform tasks required for most jobs.
• Step 3: Listed Impairments: The SSA has a list of impairments that automatically qualify for disability benefits if they meet the criteria. If your condition matches one of these listed impairments, you may be approved for benefits.
• Step 4: Past Work: The SSA will assess whether you can perform your past work. If you can still do your previous job, your claim may be denied.
• Step 5: Other Work: If you cannot perform your past job, the SSA will determine whether you can do other types of work based on your education, age, and transferable skills.

Step 4: Notification of the Decision

Once the DDS has reviewed your application and medical evidence, they will make a decision on your case. You will receive a Notice of Decision from the SSA. There are three possible outcomes:

• Approval: If your claim is approved, you will begin receiving Social Security Disability benefits. The amount of your benefits will depend on your work history (SSDI) or financial need (SSI).
• Denial: If your claim is denied, you will receive a denial letter explaining the reasons for the denial. Common reasons for denial include insufficient medical evidence or not meeting the SSA’s disability criteria.
• Request for Additional Information: In some cases, the SSA may request more information or documentation to make a decision. This could involve submitting additional medical records or undergoing a consultative exam.

Step 5: What to Do if Your Claim is Denied

It is common for claims to be denied at the initial stage, even if you have a legitimate disability. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process in Mississippi involves several steps:

• Reconsideration: This is the first step in the appeals process. You can request a reconsideration, where the SSA will review your claim again based on the evidence submitted in your initial application and any new evidence you provide. The reconsideration process usually takes about 3 to 5 months.
• Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is an in-person or video hearing where you can present your case and provide additional evidence. The ALJ will make a decision after the hearing, which can take 12 to 18 months.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the Appeals Council, which will determine whether the ALJ made an error in their decision. This process can take 6 to 12 months.