How to Apply for Social Security Disability

Social Security Disability benefits are available to those who suffer a covered long term disability. This means it must be a disability that is expected to last for no less than 12 months or that is expected to be fatal.

The disability must also be listed in the Social Security Blue Book Listing of Impairments (and meet the criteria for that listed disability) or be proven medically equivalent to one that is listed. If you believe you qualify for benefits on the basis of these criteria, you can submit your initial application online, via phone or at the SSA office. Applying online for your initial application is generally the simplest method.

Applying for SSDI Benefits

If you decide to apply for benefits online, the SSA website details four initial steps that you will need to take in order to get the process started. These four steps are as follows:

1. Review the checklist provided on the SSA website entitled "Adult Disability Checklist." The information contained on this checklist will help you to determine if you are likely to qualify for benefits based on your work history, your disability and other required criteria
2. Complete the "Disability Benefits Application" online. This is your initial application in which you provide the SSA with information that they need to know in order to determine whether you meet the criteria for collecting benefits through the SSDI program.
3. Complete the "Adult Disability Benefits" application. This can also be found online and will allow you to provide more details about both your work history and the actual medical condition you are suffering from.
4. Submit your application either online or via mail to the local SSA office.

The Application Process

The initial review of your application information may take as long as three to five months. You may begin to check your application status online approximately 30 days after submitting paperwork, as it takes at least a month or so for all required information to be gathered by the SSA.

After your initial application forms have been submitted and completed, there are certain other requirements as well for obtaining benefits. For example, you will generally need to meet with an SSA representative. You will also need to sign an authorization/release so the SSA can review your medical records and documentation.  In some cases, the SSA may also request that you be examined by an independent physician so the nature of your condition can be better assessed.

Approval or Denial

It can take as long as a year for the SSA to approve or deny a claim of benefits. If your claim is approved, it may be possible to collect back pay dating to the time when you first become eligible for benefits. If your application is denied, there is an extensive four-stage appeals process that will allow for independent review of your application. Most initial claims for SSDI will be denied, and the best chance at winning social security disability will be at the hearing level of the appeals process.

Getting Help

Applying for benefits can be confusing, as well as stressful, at a time when you are already dealing with your disability. You should strongly consider getting help from a lawyer who can assist you with completing your application and provide you with advice throughout the application process.