Step 1: Determine Which Disability Program You’re Eligible For

In Michigan, as in other states, there are two primary disability programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA):

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): SSDI is available to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a sufficient number of years. To qualify, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is a needs-based program for individuals with disabilities who have limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI doesn’t require a work history, so it’s often used by low-income individuals with disabilities or older adults.

Step 2: Check If You Meet the Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, make sure you meet the basic eligibility criteria for either SSDI or SSI:

• For SSDI: You must have worked in jobs that were covered by Social Security for a certain number of years and paid Social Security taxes. The exact number of years you need to have worked depends on your age and when you became disabled.
• For SSI: You must have limited income and resources. The SSA has specific financial limits, and your household’s income and assets will be considered.

Both programs also require that your disability prevents you from working for at least 12 months  or is expected to result in death.

Step 3: Gather the Required Documentation

You will need to provide several documents to complete your application. Make sure to gather the following:

• Personal information: Your Social Security number, birth certificate, and contact information.
• Medical evidence: Detailed records from your doctors, hospital records, and test results that show the severity of your disability.
• Work history: Documentation of your previous jobs, including dates of employment, job titles, and descriptions of duties.
• Income and financial information: For SSI applications, you will need to provide your financial records, including bank statements and details about your income and assets.
• Other supporting documents: Depending on your situation, you may need to provide additional documents like a marriage certificate (if applying as a spouse), divorce papers (if applying based on an ex-spouse’s record), or birth certificates for dependent children (if applying for children’s benefits).

Having all the necessary documentation in place will help speed up your application process.

Step 4: Apply Online, By Phone, or In Person

Once you have gathered your documents, you can apply for disability benefits in Michigan in several ways:

• Online: The fastest way to apply is through the SSA’s online portal at www.ssa.gov. You can complete your SSDI application or SSI application online if you’re over the age of 18 and your disability is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
• For SSDI: You can apply online for SSDI if you are 18 or older, not currently working, and have enough work credits to qualify.
• For SSI: You can apply online if you are 65 or older, or if you are disabled or blind and need financial assistance. If you need help with the online application, you can also schedule an appointment with the SSA.
• By Phone: You can apply by phone by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. SSA representatives are available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. They can help you start your application over the phone.
• In Person: If you prefer, you can apply in person at your local SSA office. You may want to schedule an appointment ahead of time to avoid long wait times.

Step 5: Complete the Application Accurately

Whether applying online, by phone, or in person, make sure your application is complete and accurate. This is critical because errors or missing information can delay your application or result in a denial. Be sure to:

• Answer all questions honestly and thoroughly.
• Double-check your work history, medical details, and income information.
• Provide as much detail as possible about how your disability affects your ability to work or complete daily tasks.

The more complete and accurate your application is, the better your chances of a successful outcome.

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

After you submit your application, the SSA will review your case. This process can take several months. On average, the SSA takes around 3 to 5 months to make an initial decision on SSDI or SSI claims.

During this time, the SSA may contact you to ask for additional information or clarification. Stay in contact with the SSA and be sure to respond promptly to any requests they make.

Step 7: Be Prepared for a Possible Denial

It’s common for Social Security Disability claims to be denied initially, even when you meet all the eligibility requirements. If you are denied, don’t be discouraged—you have the right to appeal the decision.

The appeal process includes:

• Requesting Reconsideration: If your claim is denied, you can ask the SSA to review your case again.
• Requesting a Hearing: If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) to present your case in person.
• Further Appeals: If the ALJ denies your case, you can ask the Appeals Council to review the decision or file a lawsuit in federal court.

Many claims are ultimately approved during the appeals process, so don’t give up if you are initially denied.

Step 8: Consider Hiring a Disability Lawyer

Although you can apply for disability benefits on your own, hiring a lawyer can significantly improve your chances of success, especially if you are denied benefits or have a complex case.

A disability lawyer can help with:

• Gathering necessary medical records.
• Filling out the application correctly.
• Representing you during hearings and appeals.

Disability lawyers typically charge on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless you win your case.