Step 1: Understand the Eligibility Requirements for Disability Benefits

Before you start the application process, it’s important to know whether you meet the eligibility requirements for SSDI or SSI.

• SSDI: To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked for a certain number of years and paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. The amount of benefits you receive is based on your work history and how much you paid into the system. You also must have a disability that meets the SSA’s criteria.
• SSI: If you haven’t worked long enough to qualify for SSDI, you may be eligible for SSI if you have limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI is need-based and doesn’t require a work history. SSI is available for those who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older.

Both programs have the same definition of disability: you must be unable to engage in substantial gainful activity (work) because of a severe medical condition that has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.

Step 2: Gather Medical Documentation of Your Disability

The most important part of your application for disability benefits is proving your medical condition. You will need to provide thorough documentation that shows your disability severely impacts your ability to work.

Here’s how to gather the necessary documentation:

• Get a Diagnosis from a Doctor: You will need a formal diagnosis from a licensed healthcare provider who can confirm the severity of your disability. This could include physical conditions, such as back problems or heart disease, or mental health conditions like depression or anxiety.
• Provide Medical Records: The SSA requires detailed medical records, such as hospital records, treatment plans, doctor’s notes, and test results. You will also need documentation of any treatments you’ve undergone, including medications, surgeries, or therapy.
• Include Statements from Your Doctors: A statement from your treating doctor explaining how your condition limits your ability to work can be helpful. The more detailed and specific the doctor’s report, the better.

Step 3: Apply for Disability Benefits in Illinois

Once you have gathered your medical documentation, you can start the application process for disability benefits. You can apply for SSDI or SSI through the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Here are your options for applying:

• Online: The easiest way to apply is online through the SSA’s official website at www.ssa.gov. You can fill out the application for SSDI or SSI at your own pace. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and provide complete and accurate information.
• By Phone: You can apply by phone by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will help you with the application process.
• In Person: You can visit your local Social Security office in Illinois. Use the SSA’s online tool to find the nearest office. It’s a good idea to schedule an appointment in advance by calling the SSA.

Step 4: Understand the Disability Evaluation Process

The SSA uses a five-step process to evaluate your disability claim:

• Are you working?: If you are working and earning more than a specific monthly threshold, the SSA may determine that you are not eligible for benefits.
• Is your condition severe?: The SSA will assess whether your condition is severe enough to limit your ability to do basic work tasks.
• Does your condition match a Listing of Impairments?: The SSA has a list of impairments that automatically qualify you for disability benefits. If your condition is on the list and meets the criteria, you may qualify without further evaluation.
• Can you perform your past work?: The SSA will look at your previous work history to see if you can still do your past job.
• Can you perform other work?: If you can’t do your past job, the SSA will assess whether you can adjust to another type of work based on your age, education, and work experience.

To be approved, your medical condition must prevent you from working, and you must meet one of the criteria above.

Step 5: Be Prepared for a Possible Denial and Appeal

It’s important to know that many disability claims are initially denied. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process involves several steps:

• Request for Reconsideration: The first step in the appeal process is asking the SSA to review your case again. If they still deny your claim, you can move to the next step.
• Request a Hearing: If reconsideration doesn’t result in an approval, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is often the most important part of the appeals process, where you can present additional evidence or testimony about how your disability impacts your ability to work.
• Appeal to the Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your case, you can appeal to the Appeals Council.
• Federal Court: As a final option, if the Appeals Council denies your case, you can file a lawsuit in federal court.