How Do I Apply for Social Security Disability?

I am frequently asked how does one apply for Social Security disability benefits and what do I need to have. The Social Security Disability application is rather detailed. Applications can be made either online, or by going to the local Social Security office. If you are going to go to the Social Security office, you should call to arrange an appointment first. If you are going to apply online, you will still need to get organized before beginning.

The Social Security Administration has provided a checklist of the information you need to complete the application. Here is a link to the site: https://www.socialsecurity.gov/hlp/radr/10/ovw001-checklist.pdf

The purpose behind the Social Security disability application is to provide the Social Security Administration with the information that is needed to determine whether you are disabled, and to whom benefits may be payable. That is, if you are disabled, there may be additional benefits payable to your dependent children. But before any benefits are payable, a lot of information must be obtained. The process is complicated, and it is important to be able to prove you meet all the criteria for the Social Security Administration’s definition of “disabled”, and each element requires the appropriate documentation. The lack of appropriate documentation is the main reason people who are genuinely disabled are often turned down.

At our law firm with offices in Mobile and Pensacola, we only handle Social Security Disability and SSI claims. As a result of that disability law specialization, we have gained a great deal of expertise in the area of Social Security Disability law. If you have questions about Social Security or SSI benefits, give us a call at 251.478.5297, or contact us online.

3 replies
  1. Ronald Swanson
    Ronald Swanson says:

    I have been trying to find out how to apply for a while now, and I haven’t found anything! Thank you for putting the link directly in your article, and for giving a detailed explanation of what Social Security Disability is, and how to get it. Hopefully I will pass so I can start getting checks for my family, until I’m fully healed and can go back to work.

  2. Julie Myers
    Julie Myers says:

    Thank you so much for posting more about how to apply for social security! For a while, I have been trying to figure this out, but it can be difficult to figure out. It sounds like it would be good for me to get help from a lawyer or attorney to fill everything out. This would probably be best so that I can do everything correctly so that it doesn’t get denied!

  3. Ethel
    Ethel says:

    It is good to know all of this information before attempting to file for disability. Getting organized beforehand will make the process a lot more simple and fast. Thanks for providing the check list, that was very helpful!

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