How to apply for disability benefits (SSDI & SSI)
Who this is for: People whose mental or physical health keeps them from working, and who need income support.
SSDI vs. SSI — which one is for you?
SSDI
Social Security Disability Insurance
For people who worked and paid Social Security taxeslong enough to earn "work credits." Your payment is based on your past earnings.
SSI
Supplemental Security Income
For people with little income and few assets, regardless of work history. Based on financial need, not past work.
You can apply for both at once
Some people qualify for both. When you apply, Social Security checks you for each program — you don't have to pick. Either way, the condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal.
What you'll need
The single most important thing is medical evidence — records that show how your condition limits you. Gather:
- Medical records — names, addresses, and phone numbers of every doctor, therapist, clinic, and hospital you've seen, plus dates.
- A list of your medications and any tests you've had.
- Work history — the jobs you've held in the last several years and what they involved.
- Income and tax info — W-2s or self-employment tax returns; for SSI, details about your income, savings, and living situation.
- Your Social Security number and birth certificate or proof of citizenship/legal status.
Print the official checklist first
Social Security has a free Adult Disability Checklist that lists everything they'll ask for. Filling it out before you apply makes the whole thing faster.
How to apply — three ways
- 1
Online — usually easiest
Start at ssa.gov/applyfordisability. You can save and come back — you don't have to finish in one sitting.
- 2
By phone
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. They can take your application over the phone.
- 3
In person at a NH field office
Make an appointment first by calling the number above. New Hampshire offices include Concord, Manchester, Nashua, Keene, Littleton, and Portsmouth. Find the closest one with the SSA office locator.
How long does it take?
Be prepared for it to take a while. A first decision usually takes about 3 to 6 months. Many strong claims are denied the first time — that's common and doesn't mean you don't qualify.
If you're denied, appeal — and don't wait
Most people who are approved were denied at least once. You have 60 days to appeal each denial, so act quickly. Free help is available from 603 Legal Aid (1-800-639-5290), and many disability lawyers only get paid if you win. Keep going — persistence matters a lot with disability claims.
Ways to make your claim stronger
- Keep seeing your doctors and therapists — ongoing treatment records are the best evidence.
- Be specific and honest about what you can't do on your worst days, not just your best.
- Answer Social Security's letters and calls quickly; missed steps cause denials.
- Keep copies of everything you send.
- Ask your treatment providers if they'll write a statement about your limitations.
Where to apply and get help
Apply online — Social Security
Start, save, and return to your disability application anytime.
Social Security — apply by phone
TTY 1-800-325-0778. Mon–Fri 8am–7pm. They can take your whole application.
603 Legal Aid — free help with a denial
Free legal help for disability and benefit appeals in NH.
ServiceLink — help understanding benefits
NH's aging & disability resource centers. Free guidance on disability programs.
Need help right now?
Call or text 988(Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), or reach NH Rapid Response 24/7 at 833-710-6477. For any emergency, call 911.