Millions of Americans rely on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to meet basic needs—but delays in processing claims often create stress for those already facing serious health or financial challenges. Now, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is doubling down on a high-tech solution it says could dramatically speed up the disability determination process: Health Information Technology, or Health IT.
What Is Health IT and Why Does It Matter?
Health IT enables the SSA to obtain electronic medical records directly from healthcare providers—instantly and securely. This streamlined approach allows the agency to evaluate disability applications faster, reducing reliance on slow, paper-based systems and minimizing the need for in-person consultative exams.
The SSA processes more than 3 million new disability applications each year. Traditionally, collecting the necessary medical records has been one of the most time-consuming steps, costing taxpayers over $500 million annually. However, when records are received via Health IT, SSA says it can identify disability allowances 50% faster.
“Health IT benefits everyone—SSA, our customers, healthcare providers, and American taxpayers,” said Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek. “We’re committed to using this technology more effectively to speed up decisions and improve service for people in critical need.”
How It Helps People on Disability
For those applying for SSDI or SSI, faster determinations can mean the difference between financial stability and falling behind on essentials like rent, prescriptions, or groceries. In April 2025, payments of up to $5,108 are being sent to some beneficiaries, while SSI checks—up to $1,450 for couples—went out on April 1.
But these payments only start flowing once an application is approved. That’s where Health IT can make a huge difference.
By securely pulling records from hospitals, clinics, and medical providers, the SSA can more quickly verify an applicant’s disability status—avoiding unnecessary delays and helping applicants avoid months-long wait times for evaluations or hearings.
Who Benefits from Health IT?
Health care providers also win. Participating in the SSA’s Health IT network means providers save time, reduce paperwork, and improve service to patients—many of whom are struggling financially or physically. For example, providers no longer need to manually fax or mail documents. Instead, with secure data-sharing systems in place, the SSA can pull the information automatically.
Currently, the SSA partners with 266 organizations across all 50 states, representing about 46,000 healthcare providers. The agency wants to grow that number significantly.
Why the Push Now?
Though Health IT has been in use for years, adoption has plateaued. The SSA is launching a renewed effort to expand its reach by:
- Partnering with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
- Streamlining the onboarding process for providers
- Promoting the benefits to healthcare systems and physician networks
Providers interested in joining the program can learn more at ssa.gov/hit.
The Bigger Picture: Disability and Social Security in 2025
As of April 2025, over 7.4 million Americans receive SSI benefits, many of whom also qualify for SSDI. These programs provide crucial support for individuals who are blind, disabled, or over age 65 with limited income and resources.
Payment schedules remain consistent: SSI arrives on the 1st of each month, with SSDI and retirement payments staggered throughout the month based on birth dates. In April, payments go out on April 3, 9, 16, and 23.
However, major changes to Social Security operations are underway. Recent executive orders have prompted staffing cuts and changes to phone services, including limits on over-the-phone identity verification beginning mid-April. These changes have increased the urgency to streamline disability processing and avoid longer delays.
Final Word
SSA’s Health IT expansion offers a practical way to make the disability claims process more efficient and less painful—for applicants, providers, and taxpayers. By cutting red tape and embracing secure digital solutions, the agency aims to better serve some of the country’s most vulnerable residents at a time when fast access to benefits is more important than ever.
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