How to Apply for Social Security Disability

If you have a medical condition that prohibits you from working, you may be able to receive Social Security Disability. The process is pretty simple, although there's a lot of information that you will need to gather, and the wait time for the final decision may be lengthy. You can also fill out your application online for faster processing of your disability claim. Here's what to do.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer and Internet connection
• Names, addresses and telephone numbers of doctors who have treated you
• Names, addresses and telephone numbers of hospitals and clinics where you've been treated
• List of drugs that you take
• Current W-2's
• Jobs you have held for the past 15 years

1. Before you apply, make sure you fit into Social Security's definition of disability. You must be unable to do any substantial work because of your medical condition(s); your medical condition(s) are expect to last or have lasted at lease a year, or be expected to result in death.
2. Go to the Social Security Online website (see Resources below). Here you can find all the information about Social Security and locations of the Social Security offices in your area. Disability forms are also accessible.
3. Call for an appointment. You will have to go to an interview to start the claim process. It's best to call the 1-800 number--800) 772-1213--rather than the local Social Security office.
4. Fill out the Adult Disability and Work History Report. There are 4 section (Personal Information, Medical, Work/Education and Review/Submit).
5. Submit form.
6. Go to the scheduled interview. This is like a pre-screening. Here they will explain and go over application. They will go over your Social Security earnings, ask questions about your work history, income and other general questions. You will be asked to sign medical release forms for your medical records. At the end of the interview you will be given the name and number of the person who will investigate your claim.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply early--it takes 3 to 5 months for a decision on a disability claim.
• You will probably be asked to bring medical records to your interview. These records may not be needed, even if they are taken at the interview most likely Social Security will request a copy from your doctor/hospital.
• Keep in mind that your claim may be denied. If so, you can appeal the decision and if worst comes to worst, you can hire a disability lawyer.
• Remember to be truthful, any intentional non-disclosure could affect your claim and make you subject to fines, penalties or arrest.