Steps to Apply for Disability in Idaho

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility for Disability Benefits in Idaho

Before you apply, it’s important to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for SSDI or SSI:

• SSDI Eligibility: You must have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a certain number of years (based on your age) and be unable to work due to a medical condition.
• SSI Eligibility: SSI is for individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history. You must be either disabled, blind, or over 65, and your financial resources must fall below the SSI limits.

For both programs, you must have a condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA)  uses a strict definition of disability, so it’s important to understand how your condition aligns with the SSA’s criteria.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documentation

You will need to provide various documents to support your application. Some of the necessary documents include:

• Social Security Number: Proof of your Social Security number (SSN).
• Birth Certificate: To verify your age.
• Medical Records: Detailed medical records from your healthcare providers documenting your condition and how it impacts your ability to work.
• Work History: A record of your employment for the last 15 years, including job titles, responsibilities, and dates worked.
• Proof of Income and Resources: Documents showing your income and assets, especially if you’re applying for SSI.

Step 3: How to Apply for Disability in Idaho

There are three main ways to apply for disability benefits in Idaho:

• Online: The easiest and fastest way to apply is through the Social Security Administration (SSA) website at www.ssa.gov. The online application is available 24/7 and walks you through the process step-by-step.
• By Phone: You can apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to start the application process over the phone.
• In-Person: You can visit a local SSA office to apply in person. There are multiple Social Security offices in Idaho, including locations in Boise, Pocatello, and Idaho Falls.

Step 4: Complete the Application

Whether you apply online, by phone, or in person, you will need to fill out an application form. You will be asked for detailed information about:

• Personal information: Name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number.
• Medical condition: Describe your condition, treatments, and how it prevents you from working.
• Work history: List the jobs you’ve had in the past 15 years and your job responsibilities.
• Financial information: Provide details about your income, assets, and resources (for SSI applicants).

Be honest and thorough when answering the questions to avoid delays in processing your application.

Step 5: What Happens After You Apply?

After you submit your application, the SSA will review it and may take several months to make a decision. The steps include:

• Medical Evaluation: If you’re applying for disability based on a medical condition, the SSA may request additional medical records or send you to a consultative examination (CE) with a doctor.
• Review of Work and Income History: The SSA will check your work and income history to verify that you meet the eligibility requirements for SSDI or SSI.
• Decision: Once the SSA reviews your case, they will send you a decision. You will either be approved for benefits, denied, or asked for more information.

Step 6: Be Prepared for a Denial

It’s common for disability applications to be denied on the first attempt. If you are denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process involves:

• Requesting Reconsideration: You can request the SSA to review your case again. This is the first step in the appeals process.
• Requesting a Hearing: If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is your opportunity to present your case in person.
• Appeals Council Review: If the ALJ denies your case, you can ask the Appeals Council to review the decision.
• Federal Court: If all appeals are exhausted, you may take your case to federal court.

Step 7: Track Your Application Status

You can track the status of your disability application using the SSA’s online account system. You can check if additional documents are needed or if there are updates on your case.

Step 8: Consider Legal Help

While it’s not mandatory to hire a lawyer, many people find that disability lawyers can improve their chances of success, especially if they are appealing a denial. A lawyer can:

• Help you gather medical evidence and complete your application.
• Represent you at hearings or in the appeals process.
• Ensure that your case is presented clearly and effectively to increase the likelihood of approval.