Applying for Social Security Disability: The Application Process
To apply for Social Security Disability benefits, you will need to complete a SSD application and a Disability Report. To do this, you can follow two simple options: handle the application yourself or turn matters over to an attorney. If you choose to apply for Social Security Disability Benefits on your own, you can call the Social Security Administration to make an appointment to file a disability claim at your local Social Security office. You can also file your application over the telephone or online.
If you choose to have a lawyer handle your application, you can contact us toll free at 888-572-1164 to schedule a free initial consultation. We may collect some information about your health and finances that will help to file a successful claim on your behalf. We may ask for the following information:
- Your Social Security number
- Your birth or baptismal certificate
- Names of the healthcare providers and hospitals where you have sought treatment
- Names of the medicines you take
- Medical records you already have in your possession, including records from doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics and caseworkers
- Laboratory and test results
- Your work history, including jobs you held and the kinds of work you did
- Copies of your most recent W-2s and tax forms
You may also need to fill out some other forms that provide information about your health and how it affects your ability to work. We will also have you sign forms that give us permission to collect your medical records for you.
Do not put off applying for SSD benefits if you cannot get all of this information together quickly. Our office staff uses years of experience to assemble the information it takes to file a successful SSD claim. We can manage things for you so you do not have to worry.
After Filing Your Initial Application
After you have filed your initial application, the Social Security Administration will review it to see if you meet some basic requirements. If you meet their standards, your application will be sent to the Disability Determination Services office in your state.
At this state agency, doctors and disability specialists consider all the facts of your case. They will use the medical evidence you provide and will seek more information from your doctors. In addition to information about your medical condition, they will also ask your doctors' opinions on your ability to do work-related activities.
The state agency may need more information to help them with their decision. In some cases, you may be asked to undergo a special examination, which may be done by your own doctor or someone else.
Appeals and Denials
When the government reaches a decision on your Social Security Disability case, it will send you a letter stating whether or not you have been approved. If your application has been approved, the letter will describe when your benefits start and how much your payments will be. If your application has been denied, the letter will give an explanation and tell you how to appeal the decision. Contact us today for a free consultation.
