Steps to Apply for Disability in South Carolina

Step 1: Determine Which Disability Program You Qualify For

Before you apply, you need to determine whether you are eligible for SSDI or SSI:

• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): If you have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a sufficient number of years, you may qualify for SSDI. Generally, you need to have earned 40 work credits, with 20 of them coming from the last 10 years of work.
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): If you have limited income and resources and have not worked enough to qualify for SSDI, you may qualify for SSI. SSI is for low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or aged (65+), regardless of their work history.

Step 2: Understand the Eligibility Requirements

Each disability program has specific eligibility requirements:

• For SSDI: You must have worked and paid Social Security taxes long enough to earn the required number of work credits.
• For SSI: You must meet income and resource limits, which include earnings, savings, and assets. Additionally, your disability must prevent you from working for at least 12 months or result in death.

Both programs require that your disability be severe enough to prevent you from performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA).

Step 3: Gather Medical Documentation

The most important aspect of your disability application is providing medical evidence that proves the severity of your condition. Here’s what you need to do:

• Medical Records: Collect all your medical records, including doctor’s notes, test results, hospital records, and any other relevant documentation. These records must demonstrate the nature of your disability and its impact on your ability to work.
• Doctor’s Opinion: A statement from your doctor describing how your condition limits your ability to perform daily tasks and work activities is extremely beneficial. Make sure your doctor is clear and specific about your functional impairments.
• Specialists: If you see specialists for your condition, be sure to include their medical reports as well.

Step 4: Complete Your Disability Application

Once you’ve gathered the necessary documentation, you can apply for disability benefits. The easiest way to apply is online, but you can also apply by phone or in person at your local Social Security office. Here’s how to apply:

• Apply Online: The quickest and easiest way to apply for disability benefits is through the SSA’s online application portal at www.ssa.gov. Make sure to fill out each section carefully and provide accurate information about your work history, medical condition, and income.
• Apply by Phone: If you prefer, you can apply by phone by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will help you start your application over the phone.
• Apply In-Person: If you need assistance, you can schedule an appointment or visit your local Social Security office in South Carolina to apply in person. Use the SSA office locator on their website to find the nearest office.
• Submit Required Documents: You will need to submit documents such as your birth certificate, proof of U.S. citizenship, medical records, and any other necessary documentation related to your work history and income.

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

The Social Security Administration (SSA) follows a five-step process to determine whether you qualify for disability benefits:

• Step 1: Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): If you are working and earning above a certain threshold, the SSA may determine that you are not disabled.
• Step 2: Severe Condition: Your condition must be severe enough to limit your ability to perform basic work tasks.
• Step 3: Meet a Listed Impairment: If your condition is on the SSA’s Listing of Impairments, you may automatically qualify for benefits.
• Step 4: Past Work: The SSA will evaluate whether you can still perform your previous job.
• Step 5: Other Work: If you cannot do your past work, the SSA will assess whether you can perform other types of work based on your skills, education, and age.

Step 6: Stay Organized and Follow Up

Once you’ve submitted your application, it’s essential to stay organized and track the status of your claim:

• Track Your Application: You can create an online account with the SSA to monitor the status of your claim and check if they need any additional information.
• Respond Promptly: If the SSA requests more documents or information, be sure to respond quickly to avoid delays in processing.

Step 7: Be Prepared for a Denial

It’s common for disability claims to be denied initially, even if you meet the eligibility requirements. If your claim is denied, don’t be discouraged—there is an appeals process available.

• Reconsideration: If your claim is denied, you can request a reconsideration of your case. A new SSA representative will review your case.
• Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing: If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). During the hearing, you can present your case in person and provide additional evidence.