What if your SSDI claim is inactive in California?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 08/07/2025
Discovering that your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim is marked as “inactive” can be confusing and alarming—especially when you’ve been waiting and relying on a decision. If you’re a California resident facing this issue, it’s important to understand what “inactive” means, why it happens, and what steps you can take to fix it.
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What Does “Inactive” Mean for an SSDI Claim?
An inactive SSDI claim means that the Social Security Administration (SSA) has stopped processing your application due to a lapse, error, or missing action on your part. Your case hasn't necessarily been denied or closed permanently, but it’s not moving forward until certain conditions are met.
Common reasons a claim might become inactive include:
- Failure to respond to SSA requests for information or documentation
- Missed medical evaluations (consultative exams)
- Incomplete forms or applications
- A change in your contact information without notice to SSA
- Long periods of inactivity or silence during the process
How to Reactivate an Inactive SSDI Claim in California
If you’ve been notified that your claim is inactive, here’s what you can do:
1. Contact Your Local SSA Office Immediately
Find your local California SSA field office and ask for clarification. They can tell you why your claim is inactive and what is needed to reactivate it.
2. Submit Any Missing Information
If you missed submitting a form, attending a medical exam, or verifying your income/work history, make it a priority to send that in right away.
3. Provide Updated Contact Info
If the SSA couldn't reach you, provide your current mailing address, phone number, and email address to restore communication.
4. Request a Status Review
In some cases, you or your legal representative may need to file a formal Request for Reconsideration if deadlines have passed or the SSA has closed your claim entirely.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long
If too much time passes after your claim is marked inactive, it could be closed entirely, and you may have to start a new SSDI application from the beginning. This could reset your timeline and delay your access to benefits.
That’s why it’s critical to act quickly and document every step you take to fix the issue.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we help SSDI applicants in California take fast action when claims become inactive. Whether it’s tracking down missing paperwork, communicating with the SSA, or filing appeals, our team ensures nothing slips through the cracks. If your SSDI claim has stalled, we can help you get it back on track.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Don’t let an inactive SSDI claim cost you the benefits you’ve earned. Call Hogan Smith for a free consultation and let us help move your claim forward. No fees unless we win.
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