Steps to Get Approved for SSDI the First Time

Step 1: Understand SSDI Eligibility Requirements

Before you begin your SSDI application, it’s essential to ensure that you meet the basic eligibility requirements. To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must:

• Have a work history: You must have worked and paid into Social Security for a certain number of years. The amount of work required depends on your age when you become disabled. Generally, you need to have earned 20 work credits in the last 10 years.
• Meet the SSA’s definition of disability: SSDI is available only to individuals who have a disability that prevents them from working. To meet the SSA’s definition of disability, your condition must:
• Prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA).
• Be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

Step 2: Gather Strong Medical Evidence

The most critical part of your SSDI application is the medical evidence you provide. SSDI claims are often denied due to insufficient or inadequate medical records. To improve your chances of approval on your first attempt, gather the following medical documentation:

• Doctor’s Records: Your doctor should provide a formal diagnosis of your condition and describe how it prevents you from working. A comprehensive medical history is essential.
• Test Results: Provide diagnostic tests, X-rays, MRIs, and any relevant lab results that show the severity of your condition.
• Treatment History: Submit records of all treatments you have received, such as medications, surgeries, therapies, and rehabilitation.
• Doctor’s Opinion: A letter or statement from your doctor detailing how your condition limits your ability to perform work-related tasks and the duration of your disability will strengthen your application.

Step 3: Ensure Your Condition Meets SSA’s Disability Listings

The SSA maintains a list of impairments (called the "Blue Book"), which categorizes medical conditions that qualify for disability benefits. To increase your chances of getting approved on your first attempt, it’s crucial to show that your condition meets or is equivalent to one of the SSA’s disability listings.

If your condition is not listed in the SSA’s Blue Book, you can still qualify for SSDI by showing that it is medically equivalent to a listed condition in terms of severity and limitations.

Step 4: Complete Your SSDI Application Accurately

Filling out the SSDI application correctly is crucial for your approval. A mistake or omission can delay your application or result in a denial. To ensure your application is accurate:

• Apply Online or In-Person: You can apply for SSDI benefits online at the SSA’s website or in person at your local SSA office.
• Provide Detailed Information: Answer all questions truthfully and provide as much detail as possible. It’s important to be thorough about your medical condition, work history, and daily limitations.
• Include All Required Documents: Make sure you submit all required documents, including medical records, your work history, and your Social Security number.

Step 5: Be Honest and Detailed About Your Limitations

The SSA needs to know how your condition impacts your ability to work. It’s essential to be honest and detailed about your limitations. For example:

• Physical Limitations: If your disability affects your ability to stand, walk, lift, or perform other physical tasks, describe these limitations in detail.
• Mental or Cognitive Limitations: If your condition affects your cognitive abilities, such as concentration, memory, or understanding, make sure to explain how these limitations prevent you from working.

Step 6: Follow the SSA’s Five-Step Disability Evaluation Process

The SSA uses a five-step process to evaluate disability claims. Understanding these steps will help you ensure that you provide the necessary evidence at each stage:

• Are you working? If you are working and earning above a certain income threshold (known as Substantial Gainful Activity or SGA), your application may be denied.
• Is your condition severe? The SSA will determine if your condition is severe enough to limit your ability to perform basic work tasks.
• Do you meet or equal a listing? If your condition matches a listing in the SSA’s Blue Book, you will automatically qualify for SSDI benefits.
• Can you do your past work? The SSA will assess whether you are able to perform any of your previous jobs.
• Can you do any other work? If you cannot perform your past work, the SSA will consider whether you can do any other type of work based on your skills, age, education, and experience.

Step 7: Stay Organized and Follow Up

After submitting your application, it’s essential to stay organized and follow up with the SSA to ensure that your application is being processed. You can:

• Create a My Social Security account: This allows you to track the progress of your application and check for updates.
• Call the SSA: If you haven’t received an update or need to check the status of your claim, you can contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

Step 8: Be Prepared for a Denial and Appeal

Even though you may submit a strong application, it’s common for SSDI claims to be denied initially. If this happens, don’t be discouraged. You can appeal the decision. The appeal process includes:

• Requesting Reconsideration: If your claim is denied, you can request a reconsideration where the SSA will review your claim again.
• Requesting a Hearing: If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). At this hearing, you can present additional evidence and argue your case.

Step 9: Consider Getting Help if Needed

While it’s possible to apply for SSDI benefits on your own, having assistance can greatly improve your chances of success, especially if your case is complicated. A disability lawyer or advocate can help you:

• Prepare Your Application: Ensuring your application is complete, accurate, and includes all necessary documentation.
• Gather Medical Evidence: Helping you obtain and organize medical records and supporting documentation.
• Represent You in Appeals: If your claim is denied, a lawyer can help you navigate the appeals process and increase your chances of approval.