Personal Information

You will need to provide basic personal details to begin the application process, such as:

• Your Social Security number (SSN)
• Date and place of birth
• Your U.S. citizenship status or legal residency information (if applicable)
• Spouse’s information, including their SSN and date of birth, if relevant
• Your bank account information (for direct deposit of benefits, if approved)

Medical Information

One of the most critical aspects of your Social Security Disability application is proving that you have a qualifying medical condition that prevents you from working. The following medical information is required:

• Complete medical records: Provide records of all doctor visits, hospital stays, treatments, surgeries, and medications you’ve taken. This includes lab test results, imaging studies (such as X-rays or MRIs), and any other medical documentation.
• Doctor’s opinions and notes: You will need statements from your treating physician(s) about your medical condition and how it affects your ability to work. The more detailed and specific these notes are, the stronger your application will be.
• Medical records from specialists: If you see specialists (such as cardiologists, neurologists, or orthopedists), include their records as well to show the full scope of your condition.

Work History Information

For SSDI applicants, you’ll need to provide detailed information about your work history. This includes:

• Names, addresses, and phone numbers of all employers over the past 15 years (or longer if you’ve had longer employment gaps)
• Dates of employment (beginning and end dates)
• Type of work you did: A description of your job duties, responsibilities, and the physical and mental requirements of the work
• Your earnings history: This will be used to determine whether you qualify for SSDI and how much you might be entitled to in benefits.

For SSI applicants, work history is not a requirement, but financial information will be important, as SSI is based on income and resources.

Income and Financial Information (For SSI Applicants)

SSI is a need-based program, so if you’re applying for Supplemental Security Income, you’ll need to provide details about your financial situation:

• Income sources: List all sources of income, including wages, self-employment income, Social Security benefits, unemployment benefits, and any other assistance or support you receive.
• Bank statements: Provide details about your current bank accounts, savings, investments, or other financial resources.
• Asset documentation: The SSA will want to know if you own significant assets (such as a home or a car), as this may impact your eligibility for SSI.

Proof of Your Disability

To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, you must prove that your disability meets the SSA’s criteria. This typically involves meeting one of the following:

• The SSA’s Listing of Impairments: This is a list of medical conditions considered severe enough to qualify for disability benefits. If your condition is on the list, it may make your claim easier to approve.
• Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Assessment: If your condition isn’t listed, you will need to demonstrate how your disability limits your ability to work. This involves showing how your condition affects your capacity to perform tasks like lifting, standing, sitting, and interacting with others.

Education and Training Information

You may also need to provide details about your education and training, including:

• Schools attended and dates of attendance
• Degrees or diplomas you have earned
• Vocational training or other educational programs you have completed

This information helps the SSA determine whether you can perform any other type of work given your condition, education, and experience. This is particularly relevant for the SSDI process.

Family Information (If Applicable)

For certain applicants, family information may be required:

• If you’re married: Your spouse’s information (such as name, date of birth, and SSN) may be necessary for some parts of the application, particularly if their income or assets affect your eligibility.
• Dependent children: If you have dependent children under 18, you may need to provide their information for certain parts of the application process, especially for SSDI.

Social Security Disability Application Form

• Online Application: You can apply for SSDI or SSI benefits online at the SSA website (www.ssa.gov). Make sure you provide the correct information and double-check for any missing documents or details.
• Paper Application: If you’re unable to apply online, you can complete the application in person or by mail at your local SSA office. Contact the SSA for more details.

Other Relevant Documents

In some cases, you may need additional documentation:

• Previous Social Security Disability Decisions: If you’ve applied for disability benefits before, you may need to provide copies of previous decisions or appeals.
• Disability-related documents: This could include a work capacity report or other documents relevant to the disability you’re claiming.