Step 1: Understand the Types of Disability Benefits Available

Before you apply, it's important to understand the two main types of disability benefits:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): This program provides benefits to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years. You need to meet specific work credit requirements to qualify for SSDI.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is for individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. If your financial situation meets certain guidelines and you have a disability, you may be eligible for SSI.

Both programs require you to prove that your disability prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

Step 2: Determine if You Meet the Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for SSDI, you need to have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years. For SSI, you must meet income and resource limitations. In addition to meeting financial eligibility requirements, both programs require that your disability:

• Is severe enough to prevent you from working
• Has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months, or is expected to result in death
• Is listed in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Listing of Impairments, or is medically equivalent to a listed condition

Review the SSA’s eligibility guidelines to ensure you meet the criteria for either SSDI or SSI.

Step 3: Gather the Necessary Documentation

Before starting the application process, gather the following documents:

• Medical records: This includes doctor’s notes, treatment records, hospital stays, lab results, and any other relevant medical documentation.
• Work history: If you are applying for SSDI, gather details about your work history over the past 15 years, including your employers, job titles, and dates of employment.
• Income and assets: If you are applying for SSI, you will need information about your income and assets, as well as details about other members of your household.

Organizing this information beforehand will help ensure a smoother application process.

Step 4: Apply for Disability Online, by Phone, or In-Person

In Alabama, you have several options for applying for disability benefits:

• Apply Online: The easiest and fastest way to apply for SSDI or SSI is through the SSA’s online portal. Visit www.ssa.gov and complete the application. Online applications are available for both SSDI and SSI benefits.
• Apply by Phone: If you prefer, you can apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will assist you in completing your application over the phone. If you are hearing impaired, you can call the SSA’s TTY line at 1-800-325-0778.
• Apply in Person: If you’d rather apply in person, visit your local Social Security office. To find the nearest office, use the SSA office locator on their website. It's a good idea to make an appointment in advance to reduce waiting time.

Step 5: Complete the Disability Application

The disability application requires detailed information about your medical condition, work history (for SSDI applicants), and income and resources (for SSI applicants). Be prepared to answer questions such as:

• How your condition prevents you from working
• Details about your work history and job skills (for SSDI)
• Your daily activities and limitations caused by your disability
• Your medical treatment, including doctors and hospitals you’ve visited

Be as thorough and accurate as possible to avoid delays in the process.

Step 6: Submit Your Application and Supporting Documents

Once you have completed the application, submit it along with any supporting documents. These may include:

• Medical records from your healthcare providers
• Work history information (for SSDI applicants)
• Income and resource information (for SSI applicants)

If you apply online, you may be able to upload some documents directly. If you apply in person or by phone, bring your documents to the SSA office or mail them as directed.

Step 7: Wait for a Decision on Your Disability Application

After you submit your application, the SSA will review your case, verify your work history (for SSDI), and assess your medical evidence. This process may take several months, so it's important to be patient. During this time, the SSA may:

• Contact your medical providers for additional information
• Request that you undergo a consultative exam if more medical evidence is needed
• Send you notifications about the status of your application

If your application is approved, you will receive a notice detailing your benefit amount and the start date. If it’s denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.

Step 8: Be Prepared for a Denial

It’s not uncommon for disability claims to be denied, even if you believe you qualify. If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. The first step is to request reconsideration, where the SSA will review your case again. If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The ALJ will give you an opportunity to present additional evidence or explain why your condition prevents you from working.

Step 9: Seek Help from a Disability Lawyer or Advocate

While applying for disability benefits in Alabama is something you can do on your own, working with a disability lawyer or advocate can significantly improve your chances of success. A lawyer can:

• Help gather and organize the necessary medical evidence
• Ensure your application is complete and accurate
• Represent you during the appeals process if your claim is denied

Disability lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.