What Does an Inactive SSDI Claim Mean?

An inactive claim usually means that the Social Security Administration (SSA) has stopped taking action on your application for one of the following reasons:

• You missed a deadline (for providing documents, attending a consultative exam, or filing an appeal)
• You didn’t respond to SSA notices or requests for information
• You withdrew your application, intentionally or unintentionally
• The SSA couldn’t contact you due to address or phone number changes

If the SSA marks your file inactive, your claim won't move forward unless you take action.

What to Do if Your SSDI Claim Is Inactive in Ohio

1. Contact the SSA Immediately

Call your local Social Security office in Ohio or the national SSA line (1-800-772-1213) to:

• Confirm the reason your claim is inactive
• Ask whether the claim can be reopened or reactivated
• Determine if you're still within your appeal or reconsideration deadline

Be prepared to provide your Social Security number, application date, and any recent correspondence you’ve received.

2. Check Your SSA Online Account

If you’ve registered for a mySSA account, log in to see the latest status of your claim. Look for messages, pending documents, or instructions that may explain why the case went inactive.

3. Reopen the Claim (If Possible)

In many cases, you can request to reopen an inactive claim, especially if the inactivity was due to:

• Missing a medical exam due to illness or other valid reason
• Not receiving SSA mail because of a recent move
• Miscommunication or technical error

The SSA may allow a reopening if you make the request within 12 months of the original denial or inactivity date. In some cases, reopening is allowed up to four years for good cause.

4. File a New Application (If Needed)

If reopening isn’t possible, your best option may be to file a new SSDI application. However, doing this may affect your eligibility for back pay, so consult with a disability representative before proceeding.