Proof of Identity

To begin your application, you will need to establish your identity. The SSA requires:

• Birth certificate or proof of birth
• Social Security number card
• Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport)

These documents verify your identity and eligibility for SSDI benefits.

Medical Records and Evidence

Your claim’s success largely depends on your ability to prove your disability. To do this, you need to submit medical documentation that shows your condition and its impact on your ability to work. This includes:

• Doctors’ reports: A letter from your treating physician that details your diagnosis, treatments, and limitations
• Medical records: Records of hospitalizations, surgeries, doctor visits, and diagnostic tests
• Test results: Copies of lab work, MRI reports, X-rays, and other medical evaluations
• Medication records: A list of prescribed medications and dosages
• Mental health records: If you have a mental health condition, include psychiatric evaluations and therapy notes

The SSA needs this evidence to understand the severity of your condition and how it affects your daily life and ability to work.

Work History and Earnings Records

To apply for SSDI, you must have worked for a certain number of years and paid into the Social Security system. The SSA requires:

• W-2 forms or tax returns for the past 1-2 years (especially if you were self-employed)
• Pay stubs from your most recent job
• Social Security earnings record: You can get this online at www.ssa.gov by creating a “my Social Security” account

These documents confirm that you’ve worked long enough to qualify for SSDI and help determine your benefit amount.

List of Medical Providers and Treatment History

You will also need to provide a list of all doctors, hospitals, or treatment centers where you’ve received care. Be sure to include:

• Name, address, and phone number of each healthcare provider
• Dates of visits and types of treatment received
• Any records of specialists or therapists you’ve seen

This helps the SSA gather all relevant medical evidence to support your claim.

Work Activity and Job Description

The SSA needs to understand how your condition limits your ability to perform work-related tasks. This includes:

• A description of your most recent job: This should include the duties you performed and any physical or mental demands of the job
• Functional report: A document that explains how your condition affects your ability to stand, walk, lift, bend, focus, and perform other tasks required by work

You’ll also be asked to provide details about your current job if you’re still working, including how many hours and how much you earn.

Other Documentation

There are a few additional documents that can be important, depending on your specific situation:

• Divorce decree (if applicable) for spousal benefits or to clarify earnings
• Disability determinations from other sources, such as workers' compensation, VA disability, or private insurance
• Proof of citizenship or legal residency (if not born in the U.S.)

Be sure to check the SSA website or consult with a professional to see if there are other documents specific to your case.