How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits

When difficult times impact you and your family, it may seem difficult to pinpoint where to begin getting help. We have created this guide to help you gain a better understanding of the Social Security Disability application process.

Remember, the application process does take time and most applicants are required to appeal or reapply after the initial determination by the Social Security Administration (SSA). But don’t worry, we are here to walk you through the steps and help you along the way!

Steps to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits

The application process should begin as soon as you are diagnosed with a disability or a severe illness that will inhibit your ability to do any level of work for at least 12 months or longer. You may apply online through the SSA website or at your local SSA office. You will need to have access to the following personal information, as well as medical and work documents before beginning your application. To verify that you have all the necessary information, contact our team so that we can make sure you are prepared and guide you through the steps to beginning your application process!

Information Checklist

Make sure you gather up the following information before you begin your online or in-person application process. If you are applying in-person, please bring qualifying documents displaying evidence of the following:

• Date and place of birth
• Marriage and divorce history
• Names and date of birth for any dependent children
• U.S. military service dates
• Employer details
• Direct deposit information
• Alternate contact
• List of medical conditions
• Medical history
• Job history
• Education and technical training
• Medical release form (SSA Form 827)

If you are applying in-person, you will also need to bring a completed copy of the Medical and Job worksheet. If you are applying for a child that is 18 years or younger, you will need to bring a completed copy of the Medical and School worksheet.

If you are unsure if you have adequate information, contact us for assistance. If you are applying online, you can start your application with one of our customer support staff members that will happily help you along the way.

Take note, though, that being diagnosed with a disability does not automatically mean you qualify for disability. In fact, more than half of all applicants are denied after their initial application. But, you have options to appeal or reapply, which increases your chances of being approved for your disability claim.

If you are wondering about the timeline of being approved for benefits, the initial process can take somewhere between 3 to 5 months. Then, if you are initially denied, the appeals and hearings can extend the process even further.

How to Reapply for Social Security Disability Benefits

It can be upsetting to receive a denial from your initial application. That’s understandable – it is upsetting! But the key is to keep moving forward. In fact, it is very common for individuals to appeal or reapply, then get approved a second or third time through the process! That’s where Disability Apply can help. If denied, we will work with you to file an appeal.

Reasons Why You Could be Denied Benefits

Here are some the reasons why your initial application could be denied:

– Your medical condition has not lasted or is not expected to last at least one year or more. 

– You make too much money. If you make more than $1,220 per month, you will be denied.

– You refuse to follow your doctor’s treatment protocol. There are exceptions to this rule, such as not taking medications for religious reasons or not being able to afford treatment.

– You refuse to release information or medical records to the SSA.

– You do not have enough work credits. In this case, you must obtain more work credits to be eligible for benefits.

– The SSA cannot locate or contact you.

– You committed a crime.

– Your disability is the result of drug or alcohol abuse.

– There was a mistake in your application.

– There is not enough medical evidence.

If your application was denied, you have the right to appeal your determination notice within 60 days. At this level, your case will be reviewed by an Administrative Law Judge, who will determine whether or not you qualify for benefits.

When you work with Disability Apply, one of our legal representatives will personally represent you during the appeals hearing in front of the Administrative Law Judge. All for no money out of pocket to you.

Reapplying for Disability Benefits

It is important to know that while you wait to have the appeal hearing, you can reapply for benefits if something changes with your disability. If your condition worsens and you meet the basic eligibility basis for your disability, you can submit a new application.

Keep in mind that no matter how many times you apply, if nothing is different with your application details, medical records, or your physical and/or mental limitations, then you are likely to be denied again.

Reapplying increases your chances if there is a major change to your medical condition. Just be prepared to provide ample medical evidence that your condition is considered severe, impairing, or long-lasting.

To receive assistance with this process of reapplying for Social Security Disability benefits if your condition has changed, contact our customer care team. We are experienced with this step of the disability application process to help you win your claim.

Receive Assistance With Social Security Disability Application Process

Overall, some claims are denied for simple mistakes in the application itself. To avoid problems with your initial application, second application, or appeal, contact one of our qualified customer care team members to receive step-by-step instructions on the application process.

We specialize in making your benefits claim as easy and stress-free as possible, and we want you to win your claim to receive the benefits that you deserve! Contact us at the number above for more information on how to get started with the application process today.