How To Apply For Social Security Disability Benefits

Injuries, illnesses and other medical complications can strike at any moment, preventing you from sustaining regular employment. In the event of a disability, you may be eligible for financial assistance from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is the primary program offered by the SSA to individuals with a terminal illness or a disability that has or will interfere with employment for at least one year.

Understanding how to apply and the criteria the Social Security Administration uses to review applications are the first steps to obtaining SSDI benefits and regaining financial stability.

How to Apply for SSDI

1) Contact the SSA for information and an application as soon as you learn that your disability is expected to last more than a year. It takes several months to get an approval, and sometimes much longer, so it is beneficial to timely start the process. You can also obtain information electronically on the SSA's website.

2) Review the preliminary criteria to be sure that you are eligible for disability benefits. SSDI is awarded on the basis of work credits and payment of income taxes. Depending on age, you must work a specified number of years prior to the disability to qualify. If you are not eligible for SSDI, there may be other options available to you, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

3) Consulting with a Social Security Disability attorney can be very helpful. SSDI attorneys have professional insight into the SSA's approval terms and understand the components of a strong case. If your first application is denied, an attorney can also assist you appeal and prepare you for your SSDI hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.

4) Maintain detailed records of your medical condition. Documented support from physicians is a key component of proving your inability to perform in your current occupation, as well as other work environments. This is especially important for conditions not currently on the Social Security Administration's list of recognized disabilities.

5) Organize all of your personal information to present with the application. This includes social security numbers, birth certificates, employment information. For the medical component of the application, you will need contact information from all physicians providing medical treatment. SSA will write for patient records detailing treatment, tests and medications.

6) Be honest and thorough when describing your disability, neither downplaying nor exaggerating the symptoms. If your condition doesn't appear to be debilitating, the SSA is not likely to approve your application. Include details about the limitations you face on a daily basis as a result of your disability. This is another area that an SSDI attorney can be invaluable -- they are familiar with the type of information that the SSA will be looking for in assessing your application both from yourself, your doctors and family, friends and co-workers.

7) Consider any factors that may reduce benefits or affect your chances of getting approved, such as intending to work while receiving benefits. Employment is allowed in some cases so long as the wages and duties do not amount to "substantial, gainful activity". Other factors to consider include worker's compensation which will be offset, unemployment compensation received which is based upon certifying that you are able to work, and improvement in your condition.

The opportunity to receive Social Security Disability payments and medicare is one of the most important benefits for disabled workers living in our society. However, applying for and being granted these benefits can be a complicated and frustrating process. Hiring an experienced SSDI attorney can help you present the most complete application possible, helping you avoid pitfalls and increasing your chances of receiving benefits.