Step 1: Determine If You’re Eligible for SSDI

Before applying for SSDI, you need to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. To qualify for SSDI, you must meet the following criteria:

• Work History: You must have worked and paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. The number of work credits you need depends on your age when you became disabled. Typically, you need to have earned at least 40 work credits, with 20 of those credits earned in the last 10 years before you became disabled.
• Medical Condition: Your disability must be severe enough to prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will evaluate your condition using their Listing of Impairments to determine if your disability meets the necessary criteria.
• Age: SSDI is available to individuals who are under the age of 65 and have a qualifying work history. If you’re 65 or older, you may qualify for retirement benefits instead.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents

Before applying for SSDI, it’s important to gather all the necessary documentation. This will ensure that you can complete your application quickly and accurately. Some of the documents you will need include:

• Personal Information: Social Security number, birth certificate, or other proof of age.
• Work History: Your employment history for the past 15 years, including job titles, dates of employment, and employer information.
• Medical Records: Documentation of your medical condition, including doctor’s notes, test results, prescriptions, and any other relevant medical information.
• Tax Information: Your W-2 forms or self-employment records (if applicable).

Step 3: Complete the SSDI Application

You can apply for SSDI in several ways:

• Online: The easiest and fastest way to apply for Social Security Disability is through the SSA’s online portal at www.ssa.gov. You can apply for both SSDI and SSI online.
• By phone: You can apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 and speaking with a representative.
• In person: You can visit your local SSA office to apply. Due to the pandemic, it’s advisable to check for availability or schedule an appointment in advance.

Step 4: Submit Medical Evidence

One of the most important parts of the SSDI application is proving that your disability prevents you from working. The SSA requires medical evidence to support your claim. Make sure to submit:

• Doctor’s Notes: Detailed statements from your treating physician explaining your condition, symptoms, and limitations.
• Test Results: Copies of diagnostic tests, imaging studies, lab results, and other medical records that show the severity of your condition.
• Specialist Records: If you’re seeing specialists (e.g., neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, etc.), make sure to include those records as well.

Step 5: Wait for a Decision

Once you’ve submitted your application, the SSA will review your case. This can take several months (usually 3-5 months or longer). During this time, the SSA may contact your medical providers to verify your records, or they may request additional information from you.

You can check the status of your application through your SSA online account. If you don’t have one, you can create an account at www.ssa.gov.

Step 6: Receive the Decision

After the SSA reviews your application, you will receive a decision. There are three possible outcomes:

• Approval: If you’re approved, you will begin receiving SSDI benefits.
• Denial: If your application is denied, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the denial. You have the right to appeal this decision.
• Request for More Information: Sometimes the SSA needs more information before making a decision. If this happens, provide the requested information as soon as possible.

Step 7: Appeal a Denial (If Necessary)

It’s common for first-time SSDI applications to be denied. If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. The appeal process involves several steps:

• Request for Reconsideration: If denied, you can request that the SSA review your case again.
• Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing with an ALJ. This is your chance to present your case in person.
• Appeals Council Review: If you disagree with the ALJ’s decision, you can ask the Appeals Council to review your case.
• Federal Court: If all appeals fail, you can take your case to federal court.