Tips on How to Prepare a Social Security Disability Claim

Tips on How to Prepare a Social Security Disability Claim
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Understanding Social Security Disability Claims

Social security disability is provided to individuals who are evaluated by medical professionals and are found unable to gainfully contribute to the workforce for at least the next 12 months. Under the Social Security Disability Act, disability income was established to provide a means of financial support.

Do not expect to be approved for disability if your medical doctor claims you will be able to return to work. Knowing what social security disability is can prevent you getting your hopes up that you will be approved for disability.

Who Is Eligible for Social Security Disability?

If you have worked a job that is governed by the provisions of the Social Security Disability Act, you should qualify for social security disability. Whether your disability is physical or emotional, your disability must be severe enough that it impacts your ability to work for a minimum of 12 months of if your disability may result in death. If you are proven to be disabled, any children under 18 years of age may be able to receive a disability stipend. If you have a child under 18 years of age that becomes disabled, he or she can receive disability income even with no work experience.

Filing For Social Security Disability

You can file disability by applying online via the Social Security Administration website or over the phone by calling 1-800-772-1213. You can submit the disability application on the Internet or download the application and take it to a local Social Security office. If you need assistance in completing the application, you can contact the Social Security Administration and schedule a time to visit your local office and discuss the disability process with a representative.

Information Needed For Application

The disability application process is extensive and can take as long as three to five months before you hear anything on your claim. By knowing how to prepare for a social security disability claim, you can help expedite the disability process. When filing your disability claim, you will need:

  • Social security number
  • Birth certificate
  • Medical provider contact information
  • Medical facility hospitalization dates
  • List of all medications prescribed
  • All medical records
  • Work history
  • Proof of income (usually W-2 wage statement form or tax return)

Remember, if you are filing for disability, any dependents may also qualify. Make sure you have the same information for all of your dependents.

Disability Determination

The Disability Determination Services will determine if you qualify for disability. The basic qualification for disability is your medical status. The Disability Determination Services office will review your medical condition, longevity of condition, limitations of your medical status, medical test results and types of treatment available to you.

In evaluating your disability claim, provide any information the committee may need.Failure to provide timely medical information necessary for your claim can slow your disability application process. By knowing how to prepare for a social security disability claim, the Determination Committee will not have to request any additional information if you provided all required information.

References

Social Security Online: Disability and SSI - retrieved at https://www.ssa.gov/dibplan/d&s1.htm

Social Security Online: How to Apply - retrieved at https://www.ssa.gov/dibplan/dapply.htm

Social Security Online: What Information Is Needed? - retrieved at https://www.ssa.gov/dibplan/dapply2.htm

Image Credit - Social Security Adminstration Logo - Wikimedia Commons/US Government

This post is part of the series: How to Prepare for a Social Security Disability Claim

Knowing how to prepare for a social security disability claim can help you expedite your disability. By not having all the information necessary, the Social Security Adminstration may need longer to process your claim.

  1. What is Necessary to File for Social Security Disability?