How to Apply for Social Security Disability: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you have been diagnosed with a disabling condition, you may be wondering if you qualify for Social Security disability benefits and what the SSDI application process is like. While the information that is available online makes it seem intimidating; it is not difficult if you are able to organize your documents and medical history.

The good news is, there are several tools and worksheets available to help with organizing the information you will need. In this step-by-step guide, we will help you understand what you will need to apply for SSDI and how to apply for Social Security disability.

Who is Eligible?

Before applying for Social Security disability, you should first understand the eligibility requirements. These benefits are available to individuals who are unable to work or earning less than the current Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) income limit, due to a disabling condition.

The second qualification is your work history. The simple rule is that you have worked five out of the last ten years. While the formula to calculate whether you have worked long enough to qualify may seem complicated and confusing, you can log into your SSA.gov account to check if you have the 40 work credits needed to receive benefits.

Preparing to Apply for Social Security Disability

Once you have determined that you are eligible for benefits, the next step is to begin gathering the information you will need for the Social Security disability application. There are three categories:

1. Information about you.
2. Information about your medical conditions.
3. Information about your job, education and training.

The Social Security Administration provides a Disability Starter Kit with a detailed list of things you will need, along with worksheets to help you gather the information and records.

This step is the most time-consuming, especially if you don’t have your personal or medical records organized.

Here are some examples of the information you will need:

• Social Security Number and birth information for you and your spouse.
• Details about any additional disability benefits you are receiving.
• Physical and mental condition(s) that prevent you from working.
• Healthcare providers with first and last dates you were seen.
• Medications you are taking and the provider who prescribed them.
• Medical tests you have had and any tests that are scheduled.
• A complete list of jobs you held in the last 5 years before you became disabled.

Your Social Security Disability Application

Once you have gathered as much information as possible, you can begin the SSDI application process. There are several options to complete the application for disability benefits.

If you choose to apply online or by appointment, it is important to make sure you are providing complete and accurate information. Alternatively, you can have a Social Security Disability attorney help you complete the forms. They have experience with what is needed and can help strengthen your claim.

After you submit your application, the Social Security Administration will review your records and application and send you to a Disability Examiner if you meet the minimum criteria. You can also sign into your Social Security account to check the status of your application.

How long does it take to get Social Security disability when you apply?

It’s important to start your Social Security disability application as soon as possible, since the application decision process can take up to one year or more in certain states.  During the process, you may need to provide additional information or attend examinations.

If your SSDI application is denied, the SSDI appeals process will take additional time to complete. It is important to consult with an experienced disability attorney to help you throughout the entire process and ensure you have the best possible outcome for your disability claim.