Steps to Getting Social Security Long Term Disability Benefits

The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is long-term disability insurance.  To qualify for this insurance your condition must be severe and last at least 12 months or expected to result in death.  You must also meet non-medical requirements.

Step One

Gather your information.  Social Security will need information about your doctors, medications, treatment in hospitals or by other medical practitioners.  They will need information about your work history.  Social Security will also ask how your condition prevents you from working.  If you do not have all of your information, Social Security can help you get it.

Step Two

There are three ways to apply for SSDI (1) over the phone using the toll free number for Social Security 1-800-772-1213, (2) making an appointment to apply at your local social security office by calling the toll free number or (3) applying online at www.ssa.gov.  You should apply as soon as you and your doctors believe you are disabled.  It can take three to six months to get an initial decision on your SSDI application.  

Prepare yourself for the possibility that your initial application for benefits may be denied.  This is not unusual.  Denials of benefits can be appealed.  There are several levels of appeals, request for reconsideration, which is usually a paper review; a hearing before an administrative law judge, appeals counsel review and federal court appeal.  The ALJ hearing is the level at which most claimants are successful in getting benefits.

Talk to a Disability Attorney

SSDI claims can be complicated.  An attorney experienced in handling social security disability and other disability claims will enhance your chances of success.  Social Security will withhold up to 25% of past due benefits to pay attorney’s fees to help claimants pursue benefits.