Why It’s Important to Monitor Your Application Status

Keeping tabs on your Social Security Disability application isn’t just about curiosity—it’s a key part of making sure your claim moves along smoothly.

Here’s why you should check in regularly:

You might speed things up. Sometimes, having your claim fresh in the claims examiner’s mind can help keep the review process on track.
You won’t miss important updates. The Social Security Administration may not always notify you promptly if your claim is denied. Since you only have a limited window to appeal (usually 65 days from the denial date), knowing your status can mean the difference between keeping your case alive or starting over from scratch.
You can catch paperwork problems early. Occasionally, documents get lost in the shuffle. Regularly checking your status allows you to catch these issues before they become a bigger headache—like missing an appeal deadline due to a clerical error.

The online application status will advise you:

When your application was received;
Whether additional evidence or other documents have been requested;
The address of the local Social Security office that is processing your application for benefits; and
Whether a decision has been issued.

Bottom line: staying informed helps protect your rights and keeps your claim from being delayed unnecessarily.

How Often Should You Follow Up on Your Disability Claim?

While your application is being reviewed, it’s a good idea to stay proactive. Make a personal note to check the status of your claim approximately 30 days after you submit your application. This simple step can help ensure you don’t miss important updates or requests for additional information from the Social Security Administration.

Setting a reminder for a monthly check-in will keep you informed throughout the process and give you peace of mind as you wait for a decision.

What Are the Risks of Not Monitoring Your Disability Claim Status?

It’s important not to set your claim aside and forget about it. Failing to keep an eye on your Social Security Administration Disability claim status can lead to several headaches:

Missed Appeal Deadlines: Sometimes, the Social Security Administration may deny your claim without promptly notifying you. Since you have only 65 days from the date of denial to file an appeal, missing this window could mean starting your application from scratch.
Lost or Mishandled Paperwork: Documents can occasionally go missing. If paperwork is misplaced or not processed correctly, your claim could stall indefinitely or, in the worst case, you might have to reapply.
Delayed Processing: By occasionally checking your claim, you keep your case on the radar of the Social Security office. This can sometimes move things along a bit faster and ensure your claim isn’t overlooked.

In short, staying proactive helps prevent unnecessary delays and increases your chance of a smooth review process.

What If I Receive an Error?

If you receive an error, it may be because:

You entered an incorrect Social Security number or confirmation number;
You did not complete the application; or
Social Security made a final decision on your application more than four months ago.

What Should You Do If There Are Delays or Lost Paperwork?

If you suspect your claim has stalled due to lost paperwork or unexplained delays, there are steps you can take to keep your case moving forward:

Reach Out to Your Claims Examiner: Contact the Disability Determination Service (DDS) handling your case. Speaking directly with your assigned examiner can help bring attention to your application and may even expedite the review process.
Keep Track of Deadlines: Sometimes, notifications from Social Security about a claim denial can get lost or delayed. Remember, you generally have 65 days from the denial date to file an appeal. Missing a notice could mean missing your chance to appeal, so it’s crucial to follow up regularly if you haven’t received a decision.
Stay Organized: Always keep copies of any documents you send or receive related to your case. If something goes missing, having your paperwork in order will make it easier to provide proof and resubmit information if necessary.
Document Your Communications: Jot down the names, dates, and details of every call or message you exchange with Social Security representatives, examiners, or the local office. This record can be invaluable if you need to clarify what was sent and when.

By being proactive and organized, you’ll help ensure your claim doesn’t get derailed by missing paperwork or administrative delays.

What If You Miss a Notification About Your Claim Decision?

Sometimes, the Social Security Administration may not notify you promptly about a decision on your claim, or there may be issues with paperwork getting lost along the way. This is more common than you might think, and it can create serious headaches—especially since you only have 65 days from the date of denial to file an appeal.

If you realize you haven’t received a decision or suspect something is amiss, don’t wait. Here’s what you should do:

Proactively check your claim status online or call your local Social Security office regularly for updates.
If you discover that a decision was issued but you weren’t notified, gather any documentation or notes about your communication with Social Security.
If too much time has passed and you’ve missed your appeal window, explain the situation in writing when you file your request for appeal—be sure to mention any problems you encountered with notification or lost paperwork. The SSA does allow for late appeals if you can show you had a good reason for missing the deadline.

Staying proactive can help prevent unnecessary delays, and documenting every interaction could make all the difference if you run into trouble with your claim.

If you do not have online access, or are otherwise unable to check the status of your application online, you may also check the status of your claim by:

Calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday; or
Contacting your local Social Security office.

Staying Informed with a Disability Attorney

Having an experienced disability attorney by your side can make it much easier to track the progress of your claim. Not only do attorneys regularly communicate with Social Security representatives and disability examiners on your behalf, but they’ll also follow up on important documentation and notify you of any updates.

This means less guessing and fewer missed deadlines for you. You’ll receive timely information about your case status, as well as guidance on what steps, if any, you need to take next. An attorney acts as your advocate, working to ensure you are kept in the loop every step of the way.

How Do I Check The Status Of A Social Security Disability Claim?