Step 1: Make Sure You Are Eligible for SSDI

Before you begin the application process, it’s important to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for SSDI. You must:

• Have a qualifying disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.
• Have worked and paid into Social Security for a sufficient number of years, generally 5 of the last 10 years.
• Meet SSA’s work credit requirements based on your age at the time of your disability.

If you meet these criteria, you can proceed with the online application process.

Step 2: Gather the Required Information

To ensure a smooth application process, make sure you have the following information available before applying online:

• Personal Information: This includes your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address.
• Medical Information: You will need to provide detailed information about your medical condition, including the name and contact information of your doctors, the dates of your visits, and details about your condition and treatments.
• Employment History: Be prepared to provide information about your work history for the last 15 years, including the names and addresses of your employers, job titles, and dates of employment.
• Financial Information: For SSDI, you may need to provide details of your income, including pay stubs, tax returns, and other financial records.

Step 3: Create a My Social Security Account

Before applying for SSDI online, you’ll need to create a My Social Security account on the SSA’s website:

• Visit the SSA website at www.ssa.gov.
• Click on “Sign In or Create an Account.”
• Follow the instructions to create a new account, or log in if you already have one.

This account will help you track the status of your SSDI application and allows you to manage other Social Security-related services.

Step 4: Start the Online SSDI Application

Once your My Social Security account is set up, you can start the SSDI application process online:

• Go to the SSA’s SSDI application page at www.ssa.gov/disability.
• Select “Apply for Disability Benefits” to begin the process.
• Follow the step-by-step instructions provided on the SSA website. You will be asked questions about your medical condition, work history, and other personal details.

Step 5: Complete the Application Form

The online application consists of several sections, including:

• Personal and Contact Information: You’ll need to confirm your identity and provide up-to-date contact information.
• Medical and Health Information: Be prepared to give detailed information about your health conditions, including diagnoses, symptoms, and treatments.
• Work History: You will be asked to list your past jobs, including the type of work you performed, the dates you worked, and the physical or mental limitations you experience because of your disability.
• Other Information: You may also need to provide information about your financial resources, including income and assets, if applicable.
  

Answer each question as accurately and thoroughly as possible. Inaccurate or incomplete information could delay the processing of your application.

Step 6: Review and Submit Your Application

Once you’ve completed all sections of the SSDI online application, review the information carefully:

• Double-check your answers: Review your work history, medical information, and personal details to ensure everything is accurate.
• Submit the Application: Once you’re confident that all the information is correct, submit your SSDI application online. You will receive a confirmation message when the application has been successfully submitted.

Step 7: Wait for SSA’s Response

After submitting your SSDI online application, the SSA will review your case and may contact you for additional information or documentation. The SSA will then issue a decision on your application:

• Initial Decision: Most SSDI applications are processed within 3 to 5 months. However, it’s common for many claims to be denied initially.
• Request a Reconsideration or Hearing: If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision by requesting a reconsideration or a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).

Step 8: Follow Up on Your Application

You can track the status of your SSDI application through your My Social Security account:

• Monitor Progress: Regularly check your account to stay updated on your application’s progress.
• Respond to Requests Promptly: If the SSA contacts you for additional information, provide the required documents or information as quickly as possible to avoid delays.

Step 9: What Happens If Your Application Is Denied?

If your SSDI online application is denied, don’t be discouraged. Many claims are denied initially. If this happens:

• Request a Reconsideration: You can ask for your claim to be reconsidered. The SSA will review your case again with any additional information you provide.
• Request a Hearing: If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). At this stage, you may want to seek legal assistance to help strengthen your case.