How to Apply for Social Security Disability

The best, and most important time, to apply for Social Security disability benefits is as soon as you become disabled. Filing for benefits usually takes a considerable amount of time, and keeping this in the forefront of your thinking is crucial when applying for disability benefits from the Social Security office. Timing can, and will, play an intricate part of your final outcome. The general time frame of claims for disability benefits is defined by anywhere from 3 to 5 months, and with your life and daily routine being severely impacted by even a simple change, maximizing on this time frame will dramatically assist you in finding a new normal in your life with as much ease and simplicity as possible.

What documentation do I need for the Social Security Disability application process?

Your ability to speed up the process is significant, and directly reflects on the organized documentation you have available from the beginning. Let’s take a close look at the necessary documentation you will want to have at the ready for this process to proceed quickly:

Your Social Security number and proof of your age
Names, addresses, and phone numbers of doctors, caseworkers, hospitals, and clinics that took care of you and the dates of your visits
Names and dosages of all the medications you are taking
Medical records from your doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics, and caseworkers you already have in your possession
Laboratory and test results
Summary of where you worked and the kind of work you did
Your most recent W-2 form, or if you were self-employed, a copy of your federal tax return

What if I am married and/or have children? Do I need to include their information when I apply for SSD?

You will need to have the following information on your immediate family members at the time of your application, along with your own personal information. Below is what you will want to have in hand:

Social Security numbers and proof of age for each family member who may qualify for benefits
Proof of marriage, if your spouse is applying for benefits, as well as dates of prior marriages if applicable

What else should I consider when applying for Social Security Disability?

All of your documentation will need to be original documents, or copies certified by the issuing office. No photocopies will be accepted. You can mail or bring them to the Social Security office, and once they have been reviewed you will be given your original documents back. Not every person who applies to receive Social Security Disability benefits will be found qualified to receive them. It will be in your best interest to retain the services of an experienced and professional attorney who is capable of helping you navigate your specific requests and to follow any necessary steps to secure the benefits you are seeking. It is important to note, that people who do not have enough work credits to be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits may possibly qualify for Supplemental Security Income if they have limited income resources. If you find that you are lacking some of the documentation, do not hesitate or delay in sending in your application. It is better to get the process started than to wait and further complicate your personal situation and outcome.

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