How Do I Apply For Disability - What Is The First Step?If you have not been working or have had to drastically reduce the hours that you are working due to some mental or physical impairment, you should consider filing for disability. Social Security offers two disability programs for people who have been out unable to work for at least twelve months or are expected to be unable to work for twelve continuous months. Do you apply for SSD or SSI? Social Security Disability is based upon the work that you performed prior to becoming disabled (work earns disability insured status) and Supplemental Security Income disability is based upon need (meaning you must meet SSI income and resource limits). You apply for both disability programs simultaneously. If you meet the non-disability requirements for both SSI and SSDI, your disability claim will be sent as a concurrent claim. If you meet the non-disability criteria of just one of the programs, your disability claim will be sent as one type or the other. So how do you apply for disability? The first step in applying for disability benefits is to contact the Social Security Administration. This can be done online, of course, and this is the method promoted by SSA. However, it is not the most efficient means of getting a claim initiated for many individuals. For one thing, the online process tends to put applicants in the position of providing the same information repetitively. And it does not offer an opportunity to ask and receive answers to questions. However, what makes the online process less efficient than claimed is the fact that many applicants will still need to speak with a field office claims representative to resolve basic questions. For these reasons, it will usually make more sense to contact Social Security to speak to a live individual who can assist with the application process. And this can be best be accomplished by calling a local office and setting an appointment to be seen. The first step of the actual disability claim process is the initial disability interview. As stated, you can complete the interview in person, or by phone, with a claims representative at your local Social Security office, though there is also an application process for Social Security Disability online. One benefit of speaking with a live individual One clear benefit of speaking with a Social Security claims representative is that if you file with a claims representative, your application and disability report form (the form used to gather medical and work information) is completed while they interview you. All you have to do it sign your medical release forms, or sign and return your medical release forms to your local office if you complete your interview by phone. Once you file your application with Social Security, your disability claim will be sent to a state disability agency (disability determination services, known as DDS) that is responsible for making the medical determinations for both SSI and Social Security Disability. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Disability determination services in North Carolina How do I File and Apply for Social Security Disability or SSI Benefits? How Do I Find Out How My Disability Appeal Is Going? How Do I Apply For Disability - What Is The First Step? Will I Qualify For SSI and How Do I Get Approved? How do I file for my children and spouse if I am Receiving SSDI? Social Security Hearing- How do I Request one, how long will it take? How do I apply for a Social Security Disability widow's claim? How do I win disability benefits in North Carolina? How Do I Know If I Qualify For Disability in North Carolina? If I get disability for a physical condition, can I receive more if I also have a mental condition? |
