Ensure You Meet All Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, make sure you meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) strict eligibility requirements. SSDI is for individuals who have worked and paid into Social Security for a certain number of years, and who have a medical condition that prevents them from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.

The SSA evaluates claims based on the following criteria:

• Work history: You must have earned enough work credits by working in jobs covered by Social Security.
• Medical condition: Your disability must be severe enough to prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity.

Submit Complete and Accurate Medical Documentation

The most important part of your SSDI claim is medical evidence. If your claim lacks proper documentation, it may be delayed or denied. To ensure that your claim is processed as quickly as possible, follow these steps:

• Get detailed medical records: Make sure your doctor provides comprehensive documentation of your condition, including test results, diagnoses, treatment plans, and how your condition limits your ability to work.
• Include statements from your treating physician: A letter from your doctor outlining the severity of your condition and how it affects your ability to work can be crucial to your claim.
• Include records from all healthcare providers: If you see specialists, include their records as well to show that you are receiving the necessary care for your condition.
  

Apply Online or In Person

The fastest way to apply for SSDI is online through the SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov. The online process is straightforward and can be completed at your convenience. If you prefer, you can apply in person at your local SSA office or over the phone, but these methods may take longer.

Provide All Required Information

Make sure that you submit all the required information and documents when applying. Missing information or incomplete forms can lead to delays. The SSA typically requires:

• Medical records and treatment history
• Work history (including details about past jobs, dates, and earnings)
• Personal information (such as birth date, address, and contact information)

Double-check everything to ensure your application is complete.

Apply for Compassionate Allowances

If your condition is on the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances list, you may be able to expedite the approval process. The Compassionate Allowances program is designed to quickly approve SSDI claims for people with certain severe medical conditions, such as cancers, neurological disorders, or rare diseases. Check the SSA’s list to see if your condition qualifies.

Follow Up Regularly

After submitting your SSDI claim, it's important to follow up regularly to ensure everything is progressing smoothly. You can:

• Create an SSA Online Account: This allows you to track the status of your claim, see if there are any updates, and know if additional documents are required.
• Contact the SSA: If you haven’t received any updates or need to clarify anything, don’t hesitate to call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

Consider Working with a Disability Attorney

While you’re not required to have a lawyer, an experienced Social Security Disability attorney can help you navigate the process more quickly. A disability lawyer can:

• Ensure your application is complete and meets all SSA requirements.
• Help gather necessary medical documentation to support your case.
• Represent you during the appeals process if your claim is initially denied, which can speed up approval at that stage.

A lawyer can also help you avoid common mistakes that lead to delays and denials.

Consider Working with a Disability Attorney

It’s common for SSDI claims to be denied initially. If your claim is denied, don’t be discouraged. You can appeal the decision, and many claimants are approved after appealing. The sooner you start the appeals process, the quicker you may receive the benefits you need.