Social Security usually makes a decision within 3 to 5 months after you submit the application.
After you've applied for SSI, here's what happens next:
-
Social Security will forward your application to the state Disability Determination Services office.
-
That office will contact your family member's doctors to get your medical records.
-
They may ask you about how your family member's condition affects their daily life.
-
They may ask that your family member have a separate medical exam. They pay for this, not you.
-
Once they have everything they need, they will make a disability determination (decision).
If Social Security approves your claim (application), they will send you a letter (called an 'award notice') that explains:
-
When your benefits start and your monthly benefit amount
-
How much your monthly check will be
-
What you need to report to Social Security, such as changes in work or health
-
When your case will be reviewed
-
What to do, and who to contact, if you have any questions.
Source: Social Security.