How To Apply For Social Security Disability

How Do I Apply?

I want to get started with my Social Security Disability Claim, what can I do first?

You have two choices when it comes to filing your Social Security Disability Claim.

1- File Your Own Claim for Social Security Benefits - Please be aware, statistics show that most people who apply for Social Security benefits on their own are initially DENIED.

The first option involves completion of all of your own filing, paperwork, communication, correspondence, court hearings and appeals entirely on your own.

2- Get Professional Representation to Help You Apply for Social Security Benefits - Statistics show that 90% of qualified applicants get approved with the help of a Social Security attorney, lawyer, or advocate.

Experienced Social Security Disability Advocates are available to guide you if you feel you would like help. These experts know how the system works, and will handle most of it for you. They won't let the Social Security Administration take advantage of you or deny you what's rightfully yours.

With representation you:

* Increase your chances of winning dramatically
* Maximize benefits due (get the most money you can qualify for)
* Let your representative deal with Social Security saving lots of time and frustration
* Have experts to file your appeals, if needed
* Get your paperwork filed quickly and accurately
* Reduce chances of denial based on unexpected technicalities
* Avoid fee payment unless you win


Regardless of the choice that you make in filing your claims, you will be required to present the same documentation and understand the filing process so that you can maximize your benefits. Below is information to help you understand the filing requirements.

Applying The Right Way


If you believe that you are disabled and unable to work, you should apply for benefits as soon as possible. The process of evaluating an application for disability benefits is extensive. Even if approved, your benefits may not actually pay out to you for some time. Consequently, the sooner you apply for benefits once disabled, the sooner you will have the security of Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income.

Filling out the application and forms
There are many forms that must be completed thoroughly and accurately. This is not a process that you should rush through. Making a mistake in your application can delay a judgment for weeks. The application is the first piece of evidence the SSA uses in making a determination for your claim. It is therefore extremely important to understand how to make statements that will help your claim and avoid terminology or admissions that will result in a denial.

Many applicants find the claim forms to be confusing. Not only is an applicant dealing with the stress of becoming disabled, but in order to complete their application they must comprehend a significant amount of unfamiliar terminology. Phrases and words that may seem to mean one thing to an applicant may have a very specific, and perhaps different, meaning to the SSA. This can make the process of proving your disability frustrating. If you are unfamiliar with what is required by the SSA, a hastily completed application will almost definitely result in a denial of benefits.