What is Disability Service Improvement (DSI)?

The Disability Service Improvement (DSI) process enhances the current disability determination process.

DSI is designed to improve the process of filing a disability claim by:

	Making the right decision as early in the process as possible;
	Providing for consistent decision–making nationally and at all steps;
	Improving documentation through clearly written determinations and decisions; and
	Ensuring that decisions follow SSA policy.

Does DSI affect everyone in the United States?

No. Currently DSI applies to disability claims filed beginning August 1, 2006 for residents in the States of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. The DSI process will be expanded nationally on a gradual basis.

How has the disability process changed under DSI?

DSI allows individuals who are clearly disabled to have favorable determinations made within 20 calendar days after the date your State Disability Determination Service receives the claim.

DSI enhances the quality and availability of medical and vocational expertise that SSA employees need to make accurate and timely decisions.

Under DSI a Federal Reviewing Official (FedRo) reviews initial determinations upon request for review from the claimant. The FedRo makes a decision based on all of the evidence. The written decision explains in clear and understandable language the specific reasons for the decision, including an explanation as to why the FedRo agrees or disagrees with the initial determination.

The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) conducts hears upon appeal of a denial by the FedRo. The ALJ explains why the ALJ agrees or disagrees with the decision of the FedRo. The record is closed after the ALJ issues a decision, except where good cause exceptions are established.

The Decision Review Board (DRB) identifies issues in both favorable and unfavorable decisions that may impede consistent adjudication at all levels of the process. The DRB reviews of most ALJ decisions are discretionary and are not a level of appeal requested by the claimant. The claimant may appeal certain ALJ dismissals to the DRB, if the ALJ does not reopen the claim.