How to Get Approved for Social Security Disability

If you are disabled, you may qualify to receive benefits.

The Social Security Administration processes disability claims for people who cannot work due to a disability. The benefit amount you will receive each month depends upon how many years you have worked and the amount you have paid into the Social Security tax system. You will need to apply for disability benefits as soon as you become disabled because the process can take up to 5 months to complete.

Instructions

1. Gather documents for your Disability Application. You will need your DD-214 if you were in the military, your W-2 form or 1040 if you were self-employed, your Social Security number, and your checking account number for direct deposit of your benefits.

2. Gather documents for your disability report. You will need your complete medical history including all medical tests you have received and medications you have taken or are currently taking. You also need complete contact information for a physician who can support your claim or provide evidence that you are disabled. In addition, you will need to provide information on your last 5 jobs and any information relating to any insurance or workers compensation claims you have filed in the past.

3. Apply for disability. You can apply online at the Social Security Administration's website. A link is provided under Resources. You will need to enter the information from your documents into the online application and online disability report. You can also apply for disability benefits by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213, TTY 1-800-325-0778, or by visiting your local SSA office.

4. Fill out the Authorization to Disclose Information to the SSA form. The form is provided below under Resources. Mail this form or bring it to your local SSA office. Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213, TTY 1-800-325-0778, to find the location of your local office.

5. Receive approval or denial within 3-5 months. Your disability, the speed of your doctor submitting evidence to support your claim, and whether or not SSA has to send you for a medical examination, all contribute to how long it will take to process your claim.

References

• Apply Online for Disability

Resources

• Online Application
• Authorization Form