There are multiple ways to file an application for Social Security disability benefits. Here are a few options if you decide you want to get the disability process moving.
When deciding to apply for disability it is important to know what needs to be submitted to the Social Security Administration for a medical determination to be made about your disabilities. If something is missed it can delay your application until all materials are received.
Three documents are needed to complete an application. These documents include a disability report, benefit application, and authorization to disclose information to the Social Security Administration. All of these documents can be found online at the Social Security website.
The disability report is the meat and potatoes of your disability claim. All of your medical providers’ contact information is needed as well as approximate dates of your first, last and any future appointments with these providers. The disability report also asks about your last 15 years worth of work history and any current medications you are taking related to your disabilities.
In addition to the disability report you will need to complete a benefit application. This application requires more personal information about marriages, children and more details about the companies you have worked for.
Once an applicant has completed the disability report and benefit application one more document is needed before Social Security can decide whether an applicant meets the medical requirements of being disabled. This document is the authorization to disclose information to the Social Security Administration. By printing and signing this document you are authorizing Social Security to collect your medical records so a medical determination can be made.
Without all of these documents a valid Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim is not possible. If an applicant wishes to file a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claim one more step is required. This involves calling Social Security to schedule an SSI phone interview. This is required to determine whether the applicant’s financial resources qualify them for this financial needs based program.
The process to complete an initial application can be time consuming, but help is out there. Social Security legal representatives, such as Greeman Toomey PLLC, can handle the initial application for you and Social Security can also assist with the process.
