Step 1: Determine Eligibility for Disability Benefits

Before you sign up for disability benefits, it’s important to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for either SSDI or SSI.

• SSDI: To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years. You must also have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.
• SSI: SSI is based on financial need rather than work history. It’s available for individuals with limited income and resources who have a disability or are 65 years or older.

Make sure to review the eligibility requirements for both programs to determine which one applies to your situation.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation

When applying for disability benefits, you’ll need to provide documentation to prove your eligibility. Gather the following information before you begin your application:

• Personal Information: Your Social Security number, birth certificate, and any other identifying information.
• Medical Records: Detailed medical records from your doctors, including diagnoses, test results, treatment history, and notes on how your disability impacts your ability to work.
• Work History: A list of your past employers, job titles, and the dates you worked. This is particularly important for SSDI applicants.
• Financial Information: If applying for SSI, you’ll need to provide documentation about your income, assets, and household resources.

Having all the necessary documentation ready will help streamline the application process.

Step 3: Apply for Disability Benefits in NC

In North Carolina, there are several ways to apply for Social Security Disability benefits:

Apply Online

The fastest and most convenient way to apply for disability benefits is through the SSA’s online portal at www.ssa.gov. You can complete the application at your own pace, and the online application allows you to track the status of your claim. Here’s how to apply online:

• Go to www.ssa.gov.
• Create an account or log in if you already have one.
• Complete the Disability Benefits Application by filling out all required information, including your medical and work history.
• Submit your application online and wait for confirmation from the SSA.

Apply In-Person

If you need assistance with the application or prefer to apply in person, you can visit your local Social Security office in North Carolina. To find the nearest office, visit the SSA’s office locator tool at https://www.ssa.gov/locator.

Make sure to bring all the required documents with you to ensure that your application is processed as quickly as possible.

Apply by Phone

If you are unable to apply online or in person, you can also apply by phone by calling the SSA’s national hotline at 1-800-772-1213. The SSA representative will guide you through the application process and answer any questions you may have.

Step 4: Complete the Application Carefully

Whether you apply online, in person, or by phone, be sure to complete the application carefully. Inaccurate or incomplete information can cause delays or even result in a denial of benefits. Double-check that you’ve answered all questions truthfully and thoroughly. Some key tips include:

• Be detailed about your disability: Provide as much detail as possible about your condition and how it impacts your ability to work and perform daily activities.
• Include all medical information: Make sure to include records from all doctors and specialists who have treated you for your condition.
• Don’t leave any questions blank: Even if a question doesn’t seem relevant to you, answer it to avoid delays in processing your application.

Step 5: Wait for a Decision

Once you’ve submitted your application, it can take several months for the SSA to process your claim. The SSA will review your medical records, work history, and other documentation to determine if you meet the requirements for disability benefits. In some cases, you may be asked to provide additional information or attend a medical examination.

During this time, you can track the status of your claim by logging into your SSA account online or by contacting your local Social Security office.

Step 6: Understand the Appeals Process if Denied

It’s common for Social Security Disability claims to be denied initially, even if you believe you qualify. If your application is denied, don’t panic—there’s an appeals process. You can:

• Request a Reconsideration: If your claim is denied, you can ask the SSA to review your case again. This is called reconsideration and is the first step in the appeals process.
• Request a Hearing: If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is your opportunity to present your case in person.
• Further Appeals: If you’re still denied after the hearing, you can appeal to the Appeals Council or federal court. It’s helpful to have an experienced disability attorney to assist with the appeals process.
  

Step 7: Get Help with the Application Process

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to go through the process alone. Consider seeking help from a Social Security Disability lawyer or advocate. They can:

• Help you fill out the application accurately.
• Guide you through the appeals process if your claim is denied.
• Offer advice on the best way to present your medical evidence and other documentation.