Step 1: Understand the Types of Disability Benefits

Before you start your application, it's important to understand which disability program is right for you. In Connecticut, you can apply for two main types of disability benefits:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): This program is for individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a certain period of time. To qualify, you must have worked for a specific number of years and earned enough work credits.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): This program provides benefits based on financial need, not work history. It’s designed for people with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history.

Both programs require that you have a severe medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.

Step 2: Check the Eligibility Requirements

Before applying for disability benefits, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for SSDI or SSI:

• For SSDI: You need to have worked and earned Social Security credits for a sufficient period of time, typically 5 out of the last 10 years, depending on your age. You must also meet the SSA’s definition of disability.
• For SSI: You must have limited income and resources, and your disability must prevent you from working. SSI is needs-based, so you don’t need a work history to qualify.

In both cases, you must show that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from performing basic work tasks for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.

Step 3: Gather the Required Documentation

The most critical part of your application is providing sufficient medical evidence that shows your disability prevents you from working. This includes:

• Medical records: Collect all medical documentation related to your disability, including doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment plans.
• Work history: For SSDI, you’ll need to provide your work history over the last 15 years, including details about your previous jobs and the work you performed.
• Personal information: You’ll need your birth certificate, Social Security number, bank account details, and financial records for SSI.
• Doctor’s statements: A letter from your doctor explaining how your condition impacts your ability to work can be incredibly helpful.

Step 4: Apply for Disability Benefits

Once you’ve gathered all your documentation, you can apply for disability benefits in Connecticut. You can apply in the following ways:

• Online: The easiest way to apply is through the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) website at www.ssa.gov. The online application is fast and convenient and can be done from the comfort of your home.
• By phone: You can also apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 and scheduling an appointment with a representative. This option may be helpful if you need assistance with the application process.
• In person: If you prefer to apply in person, you can visit your local Social Security office in Connecticut. You can find your nearest office using the SSA’s online office locator.

Step 5: Understand the SSA’s Five-Step Evaluation Process

The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates disability claims using a five-step process. Understanding this process will help you prepare your application:

• Step 1: Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): If you’re working and earning more than a certain amount, the SSA may deny your claim. In 2025, the monthly earnings threshold for non-blind individuals is $1,470.
• Step 2: Severe Condition: Your condition must be severe enough to limit your ability to perform basic work tasks. The SSA will evaluate whether your condition significantly impairs your daily activities.
• Step 3: Listed Impairment: If your condition matches one of the SSA’s Listing of Impairments, you may be automatically approved for benefits. These include conditions like cancer, heart disease, and severe mental health disorders.
• Step 4: Past Work: The SSA will assess whether you can still perform your previous job. If you can’t do your past work, they will move to the next step.
• Step 5: Other Work: If you can’t do your past work, the SSA will determine whether you can adjust to other work based on your age, education, and experience.

Step 6: Follow Up on Your Application

After you submit your disability application, you’ll need to monitor the progress of your claim. Stay organized by keeping copies of all correspondence with the SSA. You can track your application status by:

• Creating an online account: You can use your SSA online account to track the status of your claim and see if additional documentation is required.
• Calling the SSA: If you haven’t heard anything within a few weeks, you can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to check the status of your application.

Step 7: Prepare for a Possible Denial

It’s common for disability claims to be denied, even if you have a legitimate case. If your claim is denied, don’t give up. You have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process involves several steps, including:

• 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). This is where you’ll have the opportunity to present your case in person.