How to Find SSDI Statistics and Disability Claim Data: A Step-by-Step Guide

StatisticsReference
Written By Jacky Writes

Navigating the world of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is hard enough—finding reliable data about it shouldn’t be.

Whether you're a researcher, advocate, attorney, or someone curious about how SSDI claims actually work, the right data can shine a light on the trends and truth behind the process. This guide will walk you step-by-step through how to find official SSDI statistics, understand what the data really means, and use it to inform decisions, research, or advocacy work.

Why SSDI Statistics Matter

Disability statistics reveal powerful truths: who applies, who gets approved, how long it takes, and what conditions are most common. Whether you're analyzing public policy or building a disability claim, understanding the numbers gives you the edge.

Where to Start: The SSA’s Office of Retirement and Disability Policy (ORDP)

The most reliable source for SSDI statistics is the Social Security Administration (SSA) itself—specifically through its Office of Retirement and Disability Policy.

Step-by-Step: Accessing SSA SSDI Data

  1. Visit the SSA’s Research, Statistics & Policy Analysis Portal:
    https://www.ssa.gov/policy/

  2. Select “Disability” from the Topics List to view program-specific reports.

  3. Explore These Core Resources:

  4. Download Reports and Tables in PDF or Excel format for deeper analysis.

SSDI Data Beyond Reports: Where Else to Look

SSA doesn’t maintain a standalone open data portal, but you can still access raw or secondary datasets from trusted federal sources.

Additional Sources:

What About Compassionate Allowance Statistics?

Finding data on Compassionate Allowance (CAL) claims isn’t always straightforward, but these tips can help:

  • Check the CAL Program Page:
    https://www.ssa.gov/compassionateallowances/

  • Search SSA Press Releases or the SSA Blog:
    https://blog.ssa.gov/
    SSA occasionally announces new CAL conditions and shares stats.

  • Search PDFs for “Compassionate Allowance”:
    Use the find function (CTRL+F) in major reports like the Annual Statistical Report.

How You Can Use SSDI Data (By Role)

Understanding SSDI numbers isn't just about research—it can shape decisions and outcomes depending on your role.

Applicants & Families

  • Research condition-specific approval rates to set realistic expectations.

  • Use wait-time data to plan for financial needs.

  • Learn which conditions qualify for fast-tracked Compassionate Allowance decisions.

Attorneys & Disability Advocates

  • Reference national and regional denial rates to guide strategy.

  • Use impairment-specific data to strengthen initial filings or appeals.

  • Review ALJ hearing approval stats to prepare for hearings.

Researchers & Journalists

  • Track historical trends in disability program growth or shrinkage.

  • Compare SSDI with SSI data to analyze demographic differences.

  • Study condition-related approval patterns over time.

SSDI Data FAQ

Q: How often does SSA update SSDI statistics?
A: Most reports are annual, with some quarterly updates depending on the data type.

Q: How can I view SSDI data by state?
A: Use the Statistical Supplement or Annual Report—both break down information by state and sometimes by SSA region.

Q: What is the difference between SSDI and SSI data?
A: SSDI (Title II) is based on work history; SSI (Title XVI) is income-based. Always verify which program the data reflects.

Q: Can I see which conditions get approved most often?
A: Yes. SSA data includes impairment codes that show approval rates by diagnosis group, often based on Blue Book listings.

SSDI Approval Rates by Condition (2023 Data)

As of May 2025, the most recent official data available from the Social Security Administration (SSA) comes from the 2023 Annual Statistical Report on the Social Security Disability Insurance Program, published in October 2024. The 2024 report is expected to be released in October 2025. Until that report is published, the 2023 dataset remains the most authoritative source for approval rates by medical condition.

Based on that report, the most recent initial approval rates by diagnostic group are as follows:

Mental Disorders
Initial approval rate: approximately 35%

Musculoskeletal Disorders
Initial approval rate: approximately 30%

Neoplasms (Cancers)
Initial approval rate: approximately 65%

Cardiovascular Conditions
Initial approval rate: approximately 40%

Neurological Disorders
Initial approval rate: approximately 50%

Note: These figures represent approvals at the initial application stage. Approval rates may increase upon reconsideration or hearing levels.

Important Note on Data Currency

While some websites or news outlets may publish estimated or extrapolated statistics for 2024 or beyond, it’s essential to rely on official SSA data for accuracy and credibility. The SSA’s Annual Statistical Reports are typically released in October of the following year, meaning the 2024 report is not yet available as of this writing. For expert-level guidance and legally sound content, always refer to the most recent report directly from SSA.gov.

Tools You Can Use to Work with SSDI Data

Not sure what to do with a government spreadsheet? Here’s how to get started:

  • Google Sheets – Free and web-based. Upload CSV or Excel files to filter and analyze SSA data.

  • Microsoft Excel – Best for larger datasets and creating pivot tables.

  • Datawrapper or Flourish – Free tools for building simple, sharable charts and graphs.

  • CTRL+F – Use the Find function to scan long PDF reports quickly.

Why This Matters for Appeals

Understanding SSDI trends isn’t just for academics. Data can support real-world cases, especially if your claim is denied:

  • If SSA data shows a high approval rate for your condition under Compassionate Allowance, cite it when requesting expedited processing.

  • If national or local hearing approval rates are high, it might affect your strategy about proceeding to an ALJ hearing.

  • You can identify which impairments face stricter scrutiny and prepare stronger medical documentation in advance.

Summary: Your Data-Driven Disability Roadmap

Finding reliable SSDI claim statistics isn't just for policy nerds—it’s a strategic tool for applicants, advocates, and legal professionals alike. From Compassionate Allowance to denial trends, every insight brings clarity to a complex system. With this guide, you're one step closer to understanding how SSA evaluates claims and how data can guide your decisions.

Disclaimer & AI Ethical Statement

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns or questions. Consult with a licensed attorney for legal advice.

AI Ethical Statement: This article includes information sourced from government health websites, reputable academic journals, non-profit organizations, and is generated with AI. A human author has substantially edited, arranged, and reviewed all content, exercising creative control over the final output. People and machines make mistakes. Please contact us if you see a correction that needs to be made.

References

Social Security Administration. (2024). Annual Statistical Report on the Social Security Disability Insurance Program, 2023. https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/statcomps/di_asr/2023/di_asr23.pdf

Social Security Administration. (2024). Disability Research. https://www.ssa.gov/disabilityresearch/

Social Security Administration. (2024). Compassionate Allowances. https://www.ssa.gov/compassionateallowances/

Jacky Writes