Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility for SSDI or SSI

• SSDI: Social Security Disability Insurance is for individuals who have worked and paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. To qualify, you must have a certain number of work credits, which depend on your age and how long you have worked. Generally, you need to have worked for at least 5 years in the past 10 years to qualify.
• SSI: Supplemental Security Income is for individuals with limited income and resources, and it doesn’t require a work history. To qualify for SSI, you need to meet the financial need requirement, and your disability must prevent you from working for at least 12 months or result in death.

Both programs require you to have a disability that meets the SSA’s criteria, which includes a medical condition that significantly limits your ability to work and perform daily activities.

Step 2: Gather Medical Documentation

Your medical records are the most important part of your disability application. The SSA requires proof of your disability, including:

• Doctor’s Reports: Ensure your treating physicians document your condition and explain how it affects your ability to work.
• Test Results: Provide any relevant lab work, MRIs, x-rays, or diagnostic tests.
• Treatment History: Include information about treatments you’ve received, including medications, surgeries, and therapies.
• Functional Limitations: Be clear about how your condition affects your ability to perform daily tasks and work-related activities.

The more detailed and up-to-date your medical evidence is, the stronger your case will be.

Step 3: Apply for Disability Benefits

Once you’ve gathered all your documentation, you can apply for disability benefits. In Texas, there are several ways to apply:

• Online: The fastest way to apply is through the SSA’s online application portal at www.ssa.gov. This allows you to fill out and submit your application at your convenience.
• By Phone: You can also apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to speak with a representative who will guide you through the application process.
• In Person: If you prefer, you can visit your local Social Security office in Texas to apply in person. To locate your nearest office, use the SSA Office Locator on the SSA website.

When applying, be ready to provide personal information, work history, medical records, and other supporting documents.

Step 4: Understand the Social Security Disability Process

The SSA reviews your application in stages. Here’s what to expect:

• Initial Review: The SSA will first verify if you meet the basic eligibility requirements. This includes checking your work history (for SSDI) or financial status (for SSI).
• Medical Review: Once the SSA determines you meet the eligibility requirements, they will review your medical evidence to assess whether your disability meets their criteria.
• Consultative Examination (CE): In some cases, the SSA may send you for a consultative exam with one of their physicians to gather additional information about your condition.
• Decision: After reviewing your application, medical records, and any additional exams, the SSA will issue a decision. This usually takes 3 to 6 months. Many applicants are initially denied, even if they meet the eligibility requirements.

Step 5: Appeal If Denied

If your claim is denied, don’t be discouraged. Many claims are denied at the first stage. You have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process in Texas includes:

• Request for Reconsideration: The first step in appealing a denial is to request reconsideration. During this phase, the SSA will review your case again, possibly with new information or medical records.
• Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an ALJ. This is an important opportunity to present your case in person. You can bring witnesses, such as doctors or family members, to testify about your disability.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your case, you can ask the SSA’s Appeals Council to review the decision.

Each stage of the appeals process can take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of your case and the SSA’s backlog.

Step 6: Monitor the Status of Your Claim

Once you’ve applied or appealed, it’s important to stay organized and keep track of the status of your case. Here’s how to do it:

• SSA Online Account: Create an account at www.ssa.gov to track the status of your application and receive updates.
• Call the SSA: You can also call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to check the status of your claim or to ask questions about the process.

Step 7: Consider Getting Help from a Disability Advocate or Attorney

While it’s not required, many applicants find that working with a disability advocate or attorney increases their chances of success. An advocate or attorney can:

• Help gather medical records and organize evidence.
• Guide you through the application and appeals process.
• Represent you at hearings or in meetings with the SSA.

Having professional assistance can be especially helpful if your case is complex or if you’re going through an appeal.