How to File a Social Security Disability Claim
Social security disability is something that you probably don't want to deal with. If you are ill or injured, you may need to take a look at applying. If you know you are not likely to be able to work enough hours to support yourself for the rest of your life, it is probably time time to file for social security disability. Forget the things you've heard about claims being denied or taking years to approve. If you need this income, apply for it. If you are careful and diligent, your claim should be approved.
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Instructions
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Study the process. Go to the website under the Resources section and read the fact sheets and "starter kit" materials. Learn the government's criteria for disability. Think about the factors that keep you unemployed and get them documented, even if they are unrelated to your disabling injury. For example, if you have vision problems, get medical records of your eye check-ups, even if your disabling injury was to your back. Your vision problems affect your employability.
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Fill out and submit an application for social security benefits and an adult disability report. You have three choices. You can file both online or get an appointment at your local Social Security office to file them there. You could also call 1-800-772-1213 (1-800-325-0778 for TTY if you are deaf or hard of hearing) for information about filing them by phone or mail. Be sure to sign the bottom of the form. This gives state officials access to your medical records.
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Collect your medical records. Make a list of every doctor you have seen since your original injury and every hospital you've been treated at. Begin requesting copies of your medical records. Have them sent to your home and start a file. Keep records of your requests and follow up on them. Make a list of every medical test you've had and every medication you currently take or have taken. Hospitals and pharmacies might be able to help you reconstruct this information. Include this information on your medical and job worksheet.
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Create a work history that includes all your income tax forms and/or a list of all the places you've worked. Include approximate dates and contact information. Go back 15 years from the most recent job you had. You'll need this information to fill out your medical and job worksheet.
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Go to your hearing; an appointment will be sent to you in response to your application. To prepare, go over the social security disability checklist to be sure your papers are in order. Fill out the medical and job worksheet and bring it with you, along with two copies of all the records you have collected. Be on time for the appointment. Ask to have a copy of your medical records included with your case file. Keep a copy for yourself.
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Keep getting medical treatment while you wait for a decision. This can take six months or more.
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See a doctor, hospital, emergency room, walk-in clinic, specialist, chiropractor, or other doctor about your condition at least once every six weeks. Get copies of the new medical records that are generated. Send a copy of each new record to your local social security office. Include your case number. Call to be sure the records have arrived.
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Appeal if your claim is denied. Many cases that are initially denied are approved on appeal, including back pay to the date of the original application. Consider using an attorney. This can up the odds that you will win.
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Tips & Warnings
Be prepared for your first hearing, and you should be approved.
Don't be discouraged, intimidated or frightened by the process.
Don't be ashamed that you need to ask for help.
Never give up.
