Personal Information

To start, the SSA will need basic personal information to verify your identity and process your application:

• Social Security number: You’ll need to provide your Social Security number (SSN) or other official identification.
• Date of Birth: Be prepared to provide proof of your date of birth (such as a birth certificate or passport).
• Place of Birth: The SSA may ask for the location where you were born.
• Citizenship or Legal Residency: You must provide proof of your citizenship status or legal residency in the United States.
• Contact Information: Have your current address, phone number, and email on hand.

Medical Records

The most crucial documentation for your disability application is medical evidence that demonstrates the severity of your condition. This will be used to prove that you meet the SSA’s definition of disability.

• Complete medical history: Provide a full list of all doctors, hospitals, and clinics that have treated you for your condition. Include dates of treatment, diagnoses, and any treatments prescribed.
• Test results: If you have any lab work, imaging reports (like X-rays or MRIs), or medical evaluations that relate to your condition, include them.
• Doctor’s notes: Medical records that show your doctor’s notes, treatment plans, and progress reports are vital to demonstrate your disability’s impact on your ability to work.
• Functional limitations: A detailed report from your treating physician about how your disability affects your ability to perform daily activities and work tasks can significantly help your case.

Work History and Earnings

You must provide documentation of your work history and earnings to determine your eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. These documents help the SSA verify that you’ve worked enough and paid into Social Security.

• Work history: List all the jobs you’ve held over the past 15 years, including your employer’s name, your job title, and the dates you worked there.
• W-2 forms or pay stubs: Provide copies of your W-2 forms or pay stubs to show how much you’ve earned in the past.
• Self-employment records: If you’re self-employed, you will need to provide tax returns or other business documentation that shows your income.

Financial Information

If you are applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is based on financial need, you’ll need to provide additional financial documentation.

• Bank statements: Provide copies of your bank statements to show the balance in your savings and checking accounts.
• Income verification: Any sources of income, such as pension, unemployment, or other financial assistance, should be documented.
• Asset information: The SSA will also require information about other assets you may have, such as real estate or investments. SSI has strict asset limits, so you’ll need to be thorough.

Other Important Documents

• Marriage certificate: If you’re applying for benefits based on a spouse’s work history (i.e., spousal benefits), you’ll need to provide your marriage certificate.
• Divorce decree: If you were previously married and are applying for benefits based on your former spouse’s record, you will need your divorce decree.
• Children’s information: If you’re applying for dependent benefits for your children, you will need to provide their birth certificates or adoption papers.

Proof of Disability

In addition to medical records, the SSA may ask for additional proof of your disability, such as:

• Vocational assessment: A vocational expert may assess your ability to perform other work, especially if your medical condition limits your ability to continue working in your previous field.
• Mental health records: If you have a mental health condition, provide documents related to your diagnosis, treatment, and functional limitations. This may include psychiatric evaluations, therapy notes, or a mental health assessment.