(ProsperNews.net) – Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federally run insurance program that provides benefits to workers unable to work due to disabilities. According to a 2018 survey, over 8 million disabled American workers receive SSDI monthly benefits.
To become part of the program, you must meet the eligibility requirements set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). This post explains the requirements for filing for SSDI benefits, how and where to apply for the benefits, and how to appeal an application denial.
Who is Eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits?
SSA has strict regulations on who can apply for the disability benefits program. The first requirement is having a qualifying work history, meaning you must have worked long enough and paid a certain amount in Social Security taxes on your earnings.
Secondly, your impairment or illness must meet the criteria stipulated under the Social Security Act. According to the act, you’re only considered to be disabled if you’re unable to work due to a severe condition expected to last for at least a year or ultimately cause your death. Your medical condition must also prevent you from doing previous job or any other substantial gainful activity.
Lastly, you must be below the full retirement age (FRA) for you and members of your family to receive the benefits.
How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits
If you meet the SSA requirements, you can apply for disability benefits. During the application, the main documents you need to provide are:
- Birth certificate or any other proof of birth
- Proof of lawful alien status or U.S. citizenship
- W-2 form(s) or tax returns for self-employment
- Official military discharge papers if you served before 1968
- Pay stubs, award letters, settlement agreements, or proof of any other benefits received
On top of these, you’ll also need to answer questions about:
Yourself
You must provide your Social Security number, date and place of birth, and those of your current and former spouses. You must also provide the birth dates of all your children under 18 and your bank account number or financial institution routing transit number.
Medical Condition
You must provide a detailed description of your medical illness, impairment, or condition, including medical tests, patient ID, medication type, and dosage. You must also provide the name, phone number, and address of someone the SSA can contact for more information on your medical condition, such as your doctor, clinic, or hospital
Work
You must provide the name and address of your employer(s) within the last two years and the amount of money you earned during that period. You must also list up to five jobs you’ve done in the last 15 years, active military service time, and information on other benefits you’ve filed for or are planning to file for.
Where to Apply for SSDI Benefits
You can apply for Social Security disability benefits through various channels. These are:
Online
You can apply for disability benefits through the “Apply for Social Security Benefits” page. Once there, read the getting ready section, select “Start new application,” and provide the details required.
If you already have a Social Security account, you will be prompted to sign in or create one if you don’t have one to complete the application. Note that you must be over 18 years old, not currently receiving Social Security benefits, or have been denied in the last 60 days.
Phone
You can apply for SSDI benefits via phone by calling 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). The line is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Local Office
If the online application and calling don’t work, you can visit your local Social Security office to apply. You can use the Office Locator to get the phone number of your local office under the Social Security Office Information section.
You can mail your application documents to SSA. Just make sure to include your Social Security number on a separate sheet of paper, not the original documents or mailing envelope, so they can match it to your application.
What to Do If Your Application is Denied
Once you apply for disability benefits and your application is turned down, you have 60 days from when you receive the response to appeal in writing. The four levels of appeal are:
- Reconsideration
- Administrative hearing by law judge hearing
- Appeals council review
- Federal court review
It is highly recommended that those who receive a denial consult a SSDI attorney for help with their appeal. They can help you get back on the right path.
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