1. Create a “my Social Security” Online Account

The fastest and most convenient way to track your SSDI claim is through the SSA’s secure online portal, called “my Social Security.” You can create an account by visiting www.ssa.gov/myaccount.

Once logged in, you can:

• Check the current status of your SSDI or SSI claim.
• View your application submission date and any updates from the SSA.
• See if the SSA needs additional information or medical documents.
• Update your contact information so you don’t miss important notices.

Your account will show whether your claim is still pending at the initial, reconsideration, or hearing level, helping you stay informed throughout the process.

2. Track Your SSDI Claim by Phone

If you prefer to speak directly with a representative, you can track your SSDI claim by calling the Social Security Administration.

SSA National Toll-Free Number: 1-800-772-1213

• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• TTY users: 1-800-325-0778

When you call, be ready to provide:

• Your Social Security number
• Your application filing date
• Your confirmation number (if you applied online)

An SSA representative can tell you the current stage of your claim, whether any documentation is missing, and if a decision has been made.

3. Contact Your Local SSA Office in Massachusetts

You can also track your claim by visiting or calling your local Social Security office. Massachusetts has several SSA field offices located in cities such as Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Fall River, Lowell, and New Bedford.

To find your nearest office, visit www.ssa.gov/locator and enter your ZIP code.

When contacting your local office, it’s best to:

• Call ahead to confirm office hours.
• Ask for updates on your claim’s processing status.
• Verify that all required forms and medical evidence have been received.

Local offices can sometimes provide more detailed, location-specific information about your case than the national SSA hotline.

4. Stay in Touch With the Massachusetts Disability Determination Services (DDS)

After you apply, your SSDI claim is often sent to Disability Determination Services (DDS) — the Massachusetts state agency that reviews your medical evidence and decides whether you meet the SSA’s definition of disability. You can contact Massachusetts DDS directly to check whether your file is being reviewed or if more medical evidence is needed.

Massachusetts Disability Determination Services

• Address: 333 East Street, Room 400, Pittsfield, MA 01201
• Phone: (413) 499-0601

Keep in mind that DDS staff cannot tell you if your claim will be approved, but they can confirm whether your case is still pending or if additional documents are required.

5. Track the Progress of an SSDI Appeal

If your initial claim is denied and you’ve filed for reconsideration or a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), you can continue to track your appeal through the my Social Security portal or by contacting your local SSA office.

You’ll be able to see:

• The status of your appeal (e.g., “hearing scheduled” or “pending review”)
• The scheduled hearing date once it’s available
• Any new requests for medical records or evidence

Because appeals can take several months to over a year, staying updated helps ensure you never miss a deadline or important notice.

6. Respond Quickly to SSA Requests

The SSA may contact you at any time for:

• Updated medical records
• Additional work or income information
• Confirmation of personal details

Failure to respond promptly can delay or even cause your SSDI claim to be denied. Always keep copies of every letter, form, and medical report you send to the SSA, and make sure your phone number and address are current in your my Social Security account.

7. Keep Organized Records

To make tracking your claim easier, create a folder or binder that includes:

• Your SSA application confirmation page
• Copies of all submitted documents
• Notes from any phone calls with SSA representatives
• A log of the dates you submitted evidence or received updates

Having everything in one place helps you stay on top of your case and avoid unnecessary delays.