Steps to Apply for Disability

Step 1: Determine Which Disability Program You Qualify For

Before you apply, it’s important to understand which disability program best suits your situation:

• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): If you have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a sufficient amount of time, you may be eligible for SSDI. Typically, you need to have earned a certain number of work credits (40 credits, with 20 coming from the last 10 years) to qualify for SSDI.
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): If you have limited income and resources, and haven’t worked enough to qualify for SSDI, you may qualify for SSI. SSI is designed to help those with low income who are disabled, blind, or over 65 years old.

Step 2: Review the Eligibility Requirements

Each program has specific eligibility criteria:

• For SSDI: You must have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a required number of years. The SSA will also require that your disability prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.
• For SSI: If you don’t have enough work credits, SSI may be an option, but you’ll need to meet the income and resource limits. This includes having minimal savings or assets.

Both programs require medical documentation showing that your disability prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity.

Step 3: Gather Your Medical Documentation

One of the most important parts of your disability application is medical evidence. Here’s what you need to gather:

• Medical Records: Collect all relevant medical records, including doctor’s notes, test results, hospital records, treatment history, and any other documents that describe the severity of your condition.
• Doctor’s Opinion: A letter from your treating doctor that details your condition, limitations, and inability to work can make a huge difference in your application’s success.
• Specialists: If you see specialists, ensure that their records are also included to give a complete picture of your condition.

Step 4: Complete Your Disability Application

Once you have your documentation, you can apply for disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows you to apply in different ways:

• Apply Online: The quickest and easiest way to apply is through the SSA’s online portal at www.ssa.gov. Here, you can fill out the application and upload necessary documents directly.
• Apply by Phone: If you prefer, you can apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to schedule a phone interview and complete your application.
• Apply In-Person: You can also visit your local Social Security office to apply in person. Use the SSA office locator to find the nearest office.
• Submit Required Documents: Be sure to include all necessary documents such as your birth certificate, proof of U.S. citizenship, medical records, work history, and other required information.

Step 5: Understand the SSA’s Five-Step Disability Evaluation Process

The SSA evaluates all disability claims using a five-step process:

• Step 1: Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): If you’re working and earning above a certain threshold, the SSA may determine that you are not disabled.
• Step 2: Severe Condition: Your condition must be severe enough to limit your ability to perform basic work tasks.
• Step 3: Listed Impairments: If your condition is listed in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments, you may automatically qualify for disability benefits.
• Step 4: Past Work: The SSA will determine if you can still perform your previous job. If you cannot, they will move to the next step.
• Step 5: Other Work: If you can’t do your past job, the SSA will evaluate whether you can perform any other type of work, based on your skills, education, and age.

Step 6: Follow Up and Stay Organized

After submitting your application, it's important to stay organized:

• Track Your Application: You can create an online account with the SSA to monitor the progress of your application.
• Respond Promptly: If the SSA asks for additional information or documentation, make sure to respond quickly to avoid delays.

Step 7: Be Prepared for a Denial

Many disability claims are denied on the first attempt. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Here’s what to do if that happens:

• Request a Reconsideration: The first step is to ask for a reconsideration where your case will be reviewed again.
• Request a Hearing: If the reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This gives you the opportunity to present your case in person.