Applying for disability benefits can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the process step by step to help you navigate it successfully.
In this article, we'll cover:
- Before you apply
- The application process
- What happens after you apply
- If you're denied
1. Before You Apply
Determine which program:
- SSDI: If you've worked and paid into Social Security
- SSI: If you have limited income/resources
- May qualify for both (concurrent)
Check your work credits (SSDI):
- Need 40 credits (10 years of work) generally
- 20 credits in last 10 years
- Younger workers need fewer
- Check at ssa.gov/myaccount
Gather information:
- Medical records
- Doctor contact information
- Work history (last 15 years)
- Medications list
- Lab results and test reports
List your conditions:
- All physical conditions
- All mental health conditions
- How they affect daily life
- Why they prevent work
2. The Application Process
Step 1: Start your application
Online:
- Go to ssa.gov/applyfordisability
- Available for SSDI
- SSI requires phone or in-person
- Convenient and saves time
By phone:
- Call 1-800-772-1213
- TTY: 1-800-325-0778
- Make appointment
- For SSDI or SSI
In person:
- Visit local Social Security office
- Find at ssa.gov/locator
- Appointment recommended
- Bring documents
Step 2: Complete the forms
Main application:
- Personal information
- Work history
- Medical information
- Education background
Adult Disability Report:
- Detailed medical information
- Daily activities
- Work history details
- How conditions affect you
Work History Report:
- Jobs in last 15 years
- Physical requirements
- Skills used
- Hours worked
Function Report:
- Daily activities
- Abilities and limitations
- How conditions affect life
- What you can and can't do
Important: Be thorough and honest. Describe your worst days, not your best.
3. What Happens After You Apply
Application review:
- SSA checks technical eligibility
- Verifies work credits (SSDI)
- Confirms income/resources (SSI)
- If eligible, moves to medical review
Disability Determination Services (DDS):
- State agency reviews medical evidence
- May request more records
- May schedule consultative exam
- Makes disability determination
Consultative exam:
- If SSA needs more evidence
- They schedule exam with their doctor
- Attend and be thorough
- Describe all limitations
Timeline:
- Initial decision: 3-6 months typically
- Varies by state and complexity
- Can be longer
- Be patient but follow up
Decision:
- Approval: Benefits begin
- Denial: Appeal options available
- Partial approval: Review carefully
- You'll receive written notice
4. If You're Denied
Don't give up:
- Most initial claims denied (60-70%)
- Many win on appeal
- Process is designed for appeals
- Worth fighting
Appeal levels:
- Reconsideration (60 days to file)
- Hearing before ALJ
- Appeals Council
- Federal Court
Key deadlines:
- 60 days from denial to appeal
- Don't miss this deadline
- Request extension if needed
- Act quickly
Getting help:
- Consider disability attorney
- Paid only if you win
- Usually 25% of back pay
- Higher success rates
Strengthening your case:
- More medical evidence
- Doctor statements
- Detailed limitations
- Address denial reasons
Tips for Success
Be thorough:
- Report all conditions
- Include all doctors
- List all medications
- Describe all limitations
Be honest:
- Don't exaggerate
- Don't minimize
- Be consistent
- Describe average and worst days
Keep treating:
- Continue medical care
- Creates ongoing record
- Shows commitment
- Provides evidence
Follow up:
- Check status regularly
- Respond to all requests
- Meet deadlines
- Stay engaged
How Purple Helps
When you're approved, Purple is ready:
- Early access to benefits (up to 4 days)
- Track your deposits
- SSI resource limit monitoring
- Simple, supportive banking