Step 1: Determine Which Disability Program You Qualify For

Before you apply, it's important to understand which program you are eligible for:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): If you have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years, you may qualify for SSDI. SSDI benefits are available to individuals who have a disability that prevents them from working and is expected to last for at least one year or result in death.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is a needs-based program for individuals who have limited income and resources, regardless of work history. It’s intended to provide financial assistance to people who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older and meet the income and resource requirements.

Step 2: Ensure You Meet the Eligibility Requirements

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict guidelines for qualifying for disability benefits. To be eligible, you must meet the following requirements:

• Medical Criteria: Your disability must meet the SSA’s definition of “disability,” which means that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.
• Work History (for SSDI): To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked a certain number of years in jobs where you paid into Social Security. The number of years you need to have worked depends on your age at the time of your disability.
• Income and Resources (for SSI): To qualify for SSI, you must have limited income and resources. The SSA has strict limits on how much income and assets you can have to be eligible for SSI benefits.

Step 3: Gather Medical Evidence

The most critical part of your disability claim is the medical evidence. The SSA requires documentation from your doctors to prove that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from working.

• Medical Records: Collect records from all healthcare providers who have treated you for your disability. This includes doctor’s notes, hospital records, lab results, and prescriptions.
• Doctor’s Opinion: A letter or statement from your treating doctor describing how your condition limits your ability to work can be very helpful. Be sure your doctor explains in detail how your disability impacts your daily activities.
• Treatment History: Provide a complete history of your treatments, medications, and any surgeries related to your disability. The more detailed and up-to-date your medical records are, the stronger your claim will be.

Step 4: Apply for Disability Benefits

There are several ways to apply for disability benefits in Texas:

Online Application

The easiest and fastest way to apply for disability benefits is online at the SSA’s website: www.ssa.gov. To apply online, follow these steps:

• Create an account on the SSA website.
• Fill out the disability application form, providing detailed information about your medical condition, work history, and daily limitations.
• Submit all required documentation, such as your medical records, work history, and identification information.

In-Person Application

If you prefer to apply in person, you can visit your local Social Security office in Texas. The SSA has several field offices across the state where you can apply for benefits. To find your nearest office, visit the SSA’s office locator tool.

Phone Application

You can also apply for disability benefits by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will guide you through the application process over the phone. If you need assistance with the application or have special needs, you can request help from a representative.

Step 5: Know the SSA’s Disability Evaluation Process

Once your application is submitted, the SSA will evaluate your claim using a five-step process:

• Are You Working?: If you are working and earning above a certain income threshold (Substantial Gainful Activity or SGA), you may not qualify for disability benefits.
• Is Your Condition Severe?: Your medical condition must be severe enough to limit your ability to perform basic work activities.
• Does Your Condition Meet or Equal the SSA’s Listing of Impairments?: If your condition matches one of the SSA’s listed impairments (a list of severe conditions that automatically qualify for benefits), you will be approved for disability.
• Can You Do Your Previous Work?: If you are unable to do your previous work, the SSA will assess whether you can do any other type of work.
• Can You Do Other Work?: If you are unable to perform your previous job, the SSA will evaluate whether there is any other type of work you can do, considering your age, education, and skills.

Step 6: Prepare for Possible Denial and Appeal

It is common for disability claims to be denied, even if you meet the requirements. If your claim is denied, don’t get discouraged. You have the right to appeal the decision.

• Request Reconsideration: If your claim is denied, the first step is to request a reconsideration. This is when the SSA reviews your case again.
• Request a Hearing: If the reconsideration is also denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). During this hearing, you will have the opportunity to present your case in person.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your case, you can ask the Appeals Council to review your case. If the Appeals Council denies your claim, you may have the option to appeal to federal court.

Step 7: Work with a Disability Lawyer

The disability application process can be complex, and many applicants find it beneficial to work with a disability lawyer. A lawyer who specializes in Social Security Disability can help you with:

• Filling out the application accurately and gathering the necessary medical evidence.
• Representing you during the appeals process if your claim is denied.
• Ensuring that you meet all the SSA’s requirements, which can help speed up the approval process.