How to Apply for Disability Benefits in Florida
When you are unable to work due to a disability, you can apply for Social Security disability benefits. Florida residents should start the application process with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Once your application is filed with the SSA, it is forwarded to the Florida Division of Disability Determination (DDD). The Florida DDD assigns a disability analyst, who makes a determination regarding your eligibility. Their determination is sent back to the SSA, which then approves or denies your application.
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Things You'll Need
- Application for disability benefits
- Disability report
- Authorization to disclose information
Instructions
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Obtain all of the necessary forms: disability application, disability report and authorization to disclose information. The forms are available on the SSA website and can be sent electronically. You can also apply by telephone or in person.
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Complete the disability application. Provide your identifying information, military information, previous year’s W-2, Social Security numbers for every person living in your household and your bank routing number and account number to establish direct deposit of your disability checks, if desired.
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Complete the disability report, which is used to document your medical and work history. Provide the Social Security office with the names, addresses, phone numbers, identification numbers and dates of treatment for all disability-related appointments. Include a listing of any and all medications you take with the name of the prescribing physician. Attach a list of the information for every medical test you have had, including the name, type and doctor. Supply the dates of employment for your past five employers and the job title.
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Complete the authorization to disclose information. This form gives the SSA the authority to access your personal information, such as medical records, education transcripts, previous employer information, insurance information and consent to speak with third-party individuals who are familiar with your condition and can assist in their determination.
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Submit the disability application, report and authorization to your nearest SSA office. You can also call 800-772-1213 and speak with an SSA representative. The representative can take your application over the phone, or you can schedule an appointment to apply in person. After you tell them you are applying for benefits, the representative obtains all of the information for the application. Mail the authorization to disclose information and any additional documentation that is requested to their office.
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