NH Social Security Disability Determination Service - Concord, NH

Medical Eligibility for Disability Benefits

The Critical Link in the Disability Process

The New Hampshire Social Security Disability Determination Service (DDS) is the state agency responsible for making the medical decisions on claims for Social Security disability benefits. While funded entirely by the federal Social Security Administration (SSA), the DDS operates as a bureau within the New Hampshire Department of Education. Located on South Fruit Street in the Walker Building, this office serves as the critical engine in the disability application process for Granite State residents. When an individual applies for benefits at a local Social Security field office, the application is forwarded to the DDS in Concord to evaluate whether the applicant's medical condition meets the strict definition of disability under federal law.

Evaluation and Decision Making

The primary function of the DDS is to gather and analyze medical evidence. The staff, composed of disability examiners and medical consultants, works to obtain records from the applicant's own doctors, hospitals, and clinics. In cases where the existing medical evidence is insufficient to make a determination, the DDS may arrange and pay for a consultative examination (CE) with an independent physician or psychologist. The team rigorously reviews this data to determine the severity of the claimant's impairments and their ability to perform work-related activities. They handle claims for both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which is based on work history, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is a needs-based program.

Relationship with the SSA

It is important for applicants to understand the distinction between the DDS and the federal SSA field offices. The local SSA offices handle the non-medical eligibility requirements, such as age, employment history, and financial assets. The DDS in Concord focuses exclusively on the medical aspect. Once the DDS makes a disability determination, the case is returned to the SSA for final processing and benefit calculation. If a claim is denied, the DDS also handles the first level of appeal, known as a 'Reconsideration,' where a different team of examiners reviews the case entirely.

Professional and Compassionate Service

Operating under the NH Department of Education, the DDS is committed to providing fair, accurate, and timely decisions. The bureau employs a specialized staff trained in medical terminology, vocational analysis, and the complex regulations governing the Social Security program. While the office is not typically a walk-in center for filing new applications (which must be done through the SSA), they are available to answer questions regarding the status of a pending medical review. Their work ensures that eligible individuals with disabilities receive the financial support they need to maintain their independence and quality of life.

• Medical Review: Analyzing health records for disability claims.
• SSDI and SSI: Processing medical determinations for both federal programs.
• Consultative Exams: Scheduling independent medical appointments when needed.
• Reconsideration: Handling the first stage of disability appeals.
• Vocational Analysis: Assessing an applicant's capacity to work.