Determine Your Eligibility

Before you apply for Social Security Disability, it's important to make sure that you meet the basic eligibility requirements. There are two primary eligibility programs: SSDI  and SSI. Here’s how they differ:

• SSDI: This program is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years and now have a disability that prevents them from working. The number of years you need to have worked varies depending on your age, but typically, you need to have worked at least five out of the last 10 years.
• SSI: This program is for individuals with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or 65 years or older. You don’t need a work history to qualify, but you must meet the financial eligibility criteria, which are based on your income and resources.
  
  

Gather Necessary Medical Documentation

The most important part of your application is providing detailed medical evidence that supports your claim. To get Social Security Disability, you need to prove that your disability prevents you from working. Here's what you'll need:

• Medical Records: Ensure you have up-to-date records from your doctors, specialists, hospitals, and clinics. The more detailed and comprehensive your medical records are, the better.
• Doctor’s Opinion: A letter from your treating physician that explains your condition and how it impacts your ability to work can be incredibly helpful. It’s important that your doctor is specific about your functional limitations.
• List of Medications: Include a complete list of medications you are taking and any treatments or therapies you are undergoing.

Apply for Social Security Disability

Once you’ve gathered your medical records, you can begin the application process. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers several ways to apply:

• Online: The easiest and fastest way to apply for SSDI is through the SSA’s online portal at www.ssa.gov. The online application is convenient and allows you to save your progress if needed.
• By Phone: You can also apply over the phone by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment.
• In-Person: If you prefer to apply in person, you can visit your local SSA office. You can find the nearest office by using the SSA office locator on their website.

Know the SSA’s Five-Step Disability Determination Process

The SSA uses a five-step process to determine if you are eligible for Social Security Disability:

• Step 1: Are you working? If you are earning above the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit, you will not be considered disabled.
• Step 2: Is your condition severe? Your condition must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work-related activities for at least 12 months.
• Step 3: Does your condition match a listed impairment? If your condition is on the SSA’s Listing of Impairments, you may be approved for benefits automatically.
• Step 4: Can you perform your past work? The SSA will evaluate whether you can still do the job you performed before your disability.
• Step 5: Can you do any other work? If you cannot perform your past work, the SSA will assess whether you can do any other type of work based on your age, education, and skills.

Follow Up and Be Prepared for a Denial

After you submit your application, the SSA will review your case and determine whether you meet their disability criteria. It can take several months for a decision to be made. It’s essential to stay on top of the process and keep track of your claim status.

• Check Your Application: You can create an online account with the SSA to monitor the status of your claim. This will also help you track any documents the SSA may request.
• Appeal a Denial: If your initial claim is denied, don’t get discouraged. Many people are denied at first. You have the right to appeal the decision. The first step in the appeals process is requesting reconsideration, followed by a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) if necessary.

Get Legal Help if Needed

Although you can apply for Social Security Disability on your own, working with an experienced disability attorney can increase your chances of approval. Disability lawyers specialize in navigating the SSA’s complex system and can assist you with:

• Gathering medical evidence
• Filling out application forms
• Representing you at hearings