Initial Application

The first step in the Social Security Disability process is completing and submitting your application. This can be done online, over the phone, or in person at your local Social Security office.

• Online Application: The easiest way to apply is through the SSA's online portal at www.ssa.gov. You'll need to provide personal details, work history, medical information, and other relevant documentation.
• Phone or In-Person Application: If you prefer, you can apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visiting a local SSA office.

When completing your application, make sure that all of the information is accurate, including:

• Personal Information: This includes your full name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
• Work History: List all of your previous jobs and earnings for the last 15 years.
• Medical Information: Provide details about your medical conditions, treatments, and healthcare providers.

Initial Review

Once you submit your application, the SSA will conduct an initial review to determine if you meet the basic eligibility requirements for SSDI or SSI.

• Eligibility Criteria: The SSA will check whether you have enough work credits (for SSDI) or if you meet the income and resource requirements (for SSI).
• Medical Review: The SSA will also assess your medical condition and review any supporting medical evidence you provide, including doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment plans.

The SSA will also evaluate your ability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). If you are earning above a certain income threshold, you may be denied benefits.

Request for Medical Evidence

During the initial review, the SSA may request additional medical evidence to support your claim. This can include:

• Medical Records: Include records of doctor visits, hospital stays, lab tests, and any treatment plans you’ve followed.
• Doctor’s Statements: A statement from your doctor outlining how your condition affects your ability to work is crucial. The more detailed this statement, the better.

Disability Determination

Once the SSA has all the required information, they will make a disability determination based on the following criteria:

• Severity of the Condition: The SSA uses a five-step process to evaluate your claim (described below).
• Listing of Impairments: The SSA has a list of medical conditions that automatically qualify for benefits if your condition matches one of these impairments. If your condition isn’t listed, they will consider whether it’s equivalent in severity to a listed condition.

If your claim is approved, you will start receiving disability benefits. If it is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.

The Five-Step Evaluation Process

The SSA uses a five-step evaluation process to determine whether you qualify for benefits. Here’s what each step involves:

• Step 1: Are You Working? If you are working and earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold, the SSA will determine that you are not disabled.
• Step 2: Is Your Condition Severe? Your condition must be severe enough to interfere with your ability to perform basic work activities.
• Step 3: Does Your Condition Meet or Equal a Listed Impairment? If your condition is on the SSA’s Listing of Impairments, you may be automatically considered disabled.
• Step 4: Can You Do Your Past Work? The SSA will evaluate whether you are still able to perform your previous work.
• Step 5: Can You Do Any Other Work? If you can’t do your past work, the SSA will determine if you are capable of doing any other type of work, based on your skills, age, education, and work experience.

The Appeal Process (If Denied)

If your initial claim is denied, don’t get discouraged. Many claims are denied at the first stage, but you have the right to appeal the decision. There are four stages in the appeal process:

• Reconsideration: The first step is to request a reconsideration, where another claims examiner will review your application and make a decision.
• 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 and provide additional evidence.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the Appeals Council.
• Federal Court: If the Appeals Council denies your claim, you can file a lawsuit in federal court.

Receive Your Benefits

If your application is approved, you will begin receiving Social Security Disability benefits. For SSDI, you will receive monthly payments based on your work history and earnings. For SSI, you will receive benefits based on your financial need.

• Retroactive Payments: If you’ve been waiting for a decision for a long time, you may be entitled to retroactive benefits for the time period before your approval.
• Benefit Amount: Your monthly benefit amount will depend on factors such as your previous income, whether you qualify for SSDI or SSI, and your household situation.

Continuing Disability Reviews

Once you start receiving Social Security Disability benefits, the SSA may periodically review your case to determine if you are still eligible. This is known as a Continuing Disability Review (CDR). If your condition improves and you are able to return to work, your benefits may be terminated. However, if your condition remains the same or worsens, you may continue receiving benefits.