SSI District Office & Social Security Disability District Office (DO)
The Social Security District Office (also called Field Office) is the location where the initial application is submitted. The disability claim is then sent to the Disability Determination Services (DDS) for a decision, then returned to the District Office. If an appeal is submitted to the District Office, the claim returns to the DDS for another decision.
If a claimant has a question regarding his or her claim and does not have legal representation, it is appropriate to call their local District Office for information. The Social Security worker can usually answer questions regarding claims at the DDS (or at least transfer the claimant to someone who can). However, if you have a legal representative and have questions regarding your claim, your disability attorney should have the ability to answer your questions more quickly. If not, he or she will contact your local District Office to find the answer on your behalf.