Gather Your Personal and Medical Information

Before you begin filling out the disability application, make sure you have the following information ready:

• Personal Information:
• Full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and contact information.
• Marriage and family details, such as spouse or children’s names and dates of birth (if applicable).
• Medical Records:
• Detailed information about your medical conditions, including doctor’s contact information, treatment history, and diagnostic results.
• Information on medications, treatments, or surgeries you’ve undergone, as well as the names and contact information of any healthcare providers.
• Work History:
• A list of all your jobs over the past 15 years, including your employers’ names, addresses, job titles, and the dates you worked at each position.
• A description of your job duties and how your condition has affected your ability to perform them.
• Financial Information:
• If you’re applying for SSI, you will need information about your income, resources, and living arrangements.

Start Your Application Online or In-Person

The SSA offers several ways to apply for disability benefits:

• Online Application:
• The easiest way to apply is through the SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov. This option allows you to complete the application at your own pace, with the ability to save your progress and return later.
• In-Person Application:
• If you prefer, you can apply in person at your local SSA office. To schedule an appointment, call the SSA’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213.

Complete the Disability Application Form

The SSA provides a specific application form for both SSDI and SSI claims, which can be completed online or in person. The form is detailed and requires specific answers, so be sure to fill it out accurately. Here's what you’ll need to include:

• Personal Details: Provide all requested personal information, including your contact details, Social Security number, and family situation (spouse, children, etc.).
• Medical Information:
• Describe your medical condition(s), including diagnosis, symptoms, and treatments. Include detailed information about how your condition prevents you from working.
• Be sure to provide the names of your doctors and other healthcare providers, along with dates of treatment, and any medical tests or hospital stays you’ve had.
• Work History:
• Provide detailed information about your last 15 years of employment. This will include job titles, responsibilities, and how your condition interferes with your work abilities.
• Financial Details:
• For SSI applicants, you will need to provide information about your income, savings, and resources (e.g., bank accounts, property, etc.).
• Work Limitations:
• Clearly describe how your disability affects your ability to perform normal work activities, such as lifting, standing, walking, concentrating, and maintaining a schedule.

Be Thorough and Accurate

The SSA reviews your disability application carefully, and small mistakes or missing details can delay the process. To avoid delays:

• Be honest and detailed: Provide as much information as possible about your medical conditions, how they limit your ability to work, and your overall health.
• Provide full medical documentation: Submit any doctors’ notes, hospital records, or test results that support your claim.
• Double-check for accuracy: Ensure all details are correct, including your work history, income, and contact information.

Submit Your Application

Once your disability application is complete, you can submit it through the SSA website if applying online, or in person at your local SSA office if applying by mail. Be sure to include all the required documents to avoid delays.

Wait for a Decision

After you submit your application, the SSA will review it and make a decision. The process can take several months, and many applicants are initially denied. Be patient and stay on top of any requests for additional information.

If You’re Denied, You Can Appeal

If your disability claim is denied, don’t give up. Many claims are denied on the first attempt. You have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process includes the following stages:

• Request Reconsideration: The SSA will review your claim again to ensure all information was properly considered.
• Request a Hearing: If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
• Further Appeals: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can appeal to the Appeals Council and, ultimately, to federal court.