Disability Determination Service (DDS)

New Hampshire's Disability Determination Service (DDS) makes disability determinations for NH residents who apply for the Social Security Administration's (SSA) two disability programs.

These programs are

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which provides cash benefits to insured workers who meet the definition of disability and to their dependents.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which provides monthly cash benefits to children and adults who meet the definition of disability as well as certain income and resource guidelines.

Applicants for SSDI and SSI can file for benefits

• online at SSA.gov Web site
• by contacting SSA's toll-free telephone service line (1-800-772-1213)
• by visiting a local Social Security Office

If the applicant has enough work credits (SSDI) or meets the income/resource criteria (SSI), SSA will send the case file to DDS, which gathers medical and related information to see if the applicant is disabled according to Social Security law. SSA is responsible for making final decisions as to whether or not a person is eligible to receive benefits.

Disability Determination Service (DDS) is 100% funded by the Social Security Administration.