DDS (Disability Determination Services)

Disability Determination Services (DDS) is the state agency that makes the medical decision on your claim at the initial and reconsideration levels. Although each DDS is run by a state government, it applies federal Social Security rules and is funded by SSA. After your local field office confirms non-medical eligibility, your file is sent to DDS for the disability decision.

At DDS, a disability examiner works with medical and psychological consultants to gather your treatment records, may schedule a consultative examination if the evidence is thin, and then decides whether you meet SSA's definition of disability. Responding promptly to DDS letters, forms, and exam appointments helps prevent avoidable denials for insufficient evidence or failure to cooperate.