Applying For Social Security Disability Benefits

INTRODUCTION

This information in this article applies only to the government SSDI program. It does not cover disability programs through other sources.

Social Security Disability Insurance is a Federal government program designed to benefit disabled workers. The definition of disability, as used by this agency, is “You must be unable to do any substantial work because of your medical condition(s) and your medical condition(s) must have lasted, or be expected to last, at least 1 year, or be expected to result in your death.”

In an effort to facilitate the application process, the agency provides extensive information and helpful links to a six page Social Security Disability kit to assist you with preparing for this process.

HOW TO APPLY FOR DISABILITY BENEFITS

The disability decision is made by a state agency that has medical and vocational experts. This agency may request an examination or medical tests; however, you do not pay for these services.

It usually takes about 3 to 5 months to get a decision about these benefits. Completing the Medical and Job Worksheet that is available online can speed this process.

To apply for a child younger than 18 years of age, go to the website http://www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability/ and click on “Child, Under Age 18 Years.

GETTING A HEADSTART   

You do not have to wait for an appointment to start the paperwork procedure. You can do this by going online to the http://www.socialsecurity.gov/adultdisabilityreport website.

The Social Security and Disability Resource Center (SSDRC.com) is an informational website that provides answers to questions about how to apply for disability, how to appeal a claim in the event of a denial, how to navigate the federal system, and how to avoid certain mistakes that are commonly made by applicants. The site’s author is a former disability examiner for the social security administration.

• Step 1: Review the Adult Disability Checklist

• Step 2: Fill out the online Disability Benefit Application
• Step 3: Fill out the online Adult Disability Report
• Step 4: Complete the Authorization to Disclose Information to the Social Security Administration and take or mail to your local Social Security office.

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

[1] For more information you can visit the Social Security website http://www.socialsecurity.gov and search on disability, asking the interviewer during your appointment, or toll-free by telephone at 1-800-772-1213.

[2] Another helpful resource is the booklet titled “What You Should Know Before You Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits.” You can print a copy of this booklet from the website http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disability/

[3] Our thanks to Lymph Notes member Tracy for this information.The Social Security and Disability Resource Center (SSDRC.com) is an informational website that provides answers to questions about how to apply for disability, how to appeal a claim in the event of a denial, how to navigate the federal system, and how to avoid certain mistakes that are commonly made by applicants. The site’s author is a former disability examiner for the social security administration. This page has information about the disability application process: http://www.ssdrc.com/15-23.html.

© LymphNotes.com 2011 (updated).This information does not replace the advice of a qualified health care professional.  

Category: Insurance and Medicare Updated: 2011-11-30