Step 1: Determine Which Disability Benefit You’re Applying For

Before you apply online, it’s important to know which type of disability benefit you need to apply for:

• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): This is for individuals who have worked and paid into Social Security through their employment but are now disabled and unable to work.
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): This is for individuals who are disabled, blind, or elderly and have limited income and resources, regardless of their work history.

Make sure you are applying for the correct benefit based on your work history and financial situation.

Step 2: Gather Your Necessary Documents

Before starting your application, it’s helpful to gather the following documents:

• Social Security number (SSN)
• Birth certificate or proof of birth
• Medical records: Including doctor’s names, addresses, and phone numbers, treatment dates, and any supporting documents for your medical condition.
• Proof of income: Pay stubs, tax returns, or any documents that show your earnings (important for SSDI and SSI applications).
• Bank account information: For direct deposit of benefits (if you’re applying for SSI).
• Work history information: For SSDI applicants, make sure to have information about your past work history, including the names and addresses of your employers and dates of employment.

Step 3: Create a “My Social Security” Account

To apply for disability benefits online, you will need to create a “My Social Security” account if you don’t already have one. This account allows you to apply for benefits, track your claim status, and access your benefits once approved.

To create an account:

• Visit the official SSA website at www.ssa.gov.
• Select “Sign In/Up” at the top of the page.
• Follow the instructions to create an account with your email address, Social Security number, and other personal information.

After creating your account, you can begin the disability application process.

Step 4: Start the Online Disability Application

Once your My Social Security account is set up, follow these steps:

Visit the SSA’s Online Application Page:

• Go to the SSA’s Disability Application page at www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability.

Select the Right Application:

• You will be asked whether you want to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Choose the appropriate option based on your eligibility.

Answer the Questions:

• The online application will ask for details about your personal information, medical history, work history, and financial situation (for SSI).
• Be prepared to answer questions about your disability and how it affects your ability to work. Be as detailed and accurate as possible.

Submit Your Medical Information:

• You will need to provide information about your healthcare providers and medical conditions. Make sure you include names, addresses, phone numbers, and dates of visits for your doctors, hospitals, or clinics that have treated you.

Provide Work History:

• If applying for SSDI, you will be asked to provide a list of your past jobs (within the last 15 years) along with details about your duties and how your disability prevents you from performing them.

Complete the Application:

• Continue through the application, entering the requested information. Once you’ve completed the form, you’ll be able to review all the details before submission.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

After carefully reviewing your application for accuracy, submit it online. Make sure that all information is correct and that you have provided any required documents.

• After submission, you will receive a confirmation number, so keep a record of this for reference. You will also receive a notice from the SSA that they’ve received your application and will begin processing it.

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

After you submit your application, the SSA will review your information, including medical records, work history, and other supporting documents. The review process can take several months, and in some cases, you may be asked to provide additional information.

• SSDI Approval: If you qualify for SSDI, you will receive a notice of approval and begin receiving benefits.
• SSI Approval: If applying for SSI, approval may take a little longer, especially if additional eligibility criteria need to be reviewed.

Step 7: Follow Up and Respond to Requests for More Information

If the SSA requires additional information or documentation, respond as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing your application. It is important to be proactive and stay in communication with the SSA during this time.

Step 8: Appeal If Your Application Is Denied

If your disability application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The SSA will provide instructions on how to file an appeal, and you can submit it online or by mail.

• You have 60 days from the denial notice to request an appeal, which can involve a reconsideration of your case or a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).