6 plain-English guides on more guides, written from public Social Security Administration sources: SSA.gov, the Listing of Impairments, POMS and 20 CFR. Every figure carries the year it applies to, because these rules change and an undated number is worse than no number. Start anywhere in the list below, or use the navigation above to move to a different stage of the process.
- The 30-Day DDS Notice of Failure to Cooperate Explained
A DDS failure to cooperate notice means your SSDI claim can be decided without you. Learn what the letter means and how to respond before the deadline.
- Expedited SSDI Processing: CAL, TERI, and Dire Need
Explore expedited SSDI processing channels including Compassionate Allowances, TERI, and Dire Need requests, how cases get flagged, and what speeds up.
- Setting Up a mySocialSecurity Account to Track Your Claim
Set up a free my Social Security account to file and track your SSDI claim, pass SSA identity proofing, and use backup routes when online verification fails.
- What a Quick Disability Determination Is
Understand what a quick disability determination is under 2026 SSA rules, how predictive modeling expedites claims, and how QDD differs from CAL and TERI.
- Interpreters and Accommodations in the SSDI Process
Learn how to request free SSA interpreter services, language assistance, and disability accommodations for SSDI applications, interviews, and medical exams.
- Submitting Assistive Device Prescriptions for SSDI
Learn how to submit assistive device prescriptions for SSDI, why DDS requires doctor orders for canes on Form SSA-3373, and how to gather DME records.