How to Apply For Social Security Disability Benefits Online

If you believe you qualify for disability benefits, you can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) online. Through the SSA website, you can complete your SSDI application and then monitor your claim’s progress.

Thus, the question is, are there any differences between applying for Social Security Disability benefits the old-fashioned way and applying for Social Security Disability benefits online? Before you submit your online ssdi application for Social Security Disability benefits, there are some things you should know.

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Determining Eligibility for Disability Benefits

Many people go straight to the Social Security Disability application when applying for Social Security Disability benefits online. However, there is a tool you should use before you begin the actual ssdi application process if you are unsure that you qualify for disability benefits.

When considering whether or not to complete an application for SSDI, you can consult the Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool available on the Social Security website.

This tool is not an actual ssdi application, but it will help you understand whether or not you may actually qualify for benefits under the Social Security Disability program. The process only takes about five to ten minutes and it can provide you with valuable information about your Social Security disability eligibility.

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The Convenience of Applying on Your Own Time

Filing a claim for Social Security Disability benefits online can definitely make the ssdi application process easier. However, it is important to understand that your application for SSDI will not end with the online application.

You will still need to fill out the required forms, provide adequate documentation of your disability and go through the ssdi application review process.

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What You Need to Know When Applying for Disability Online

If you prefer to apply for Social Security Disability benefits from the comfort of your home, there are a few things you need to know. First and foremost, before you sit down to fill out the Social Security Disability application, make sure you have access to all of the information you will need in order to apply for disability.

This information includes details about your identity as well as information about the medical basis of your Social Security Disability claim. You will also need information about your earnings for the previous year and the current year as well as your Social Security Earnings Statement.

Finally, you may want to have your bank account information on hand if you want your Social Security Disability benefits deposited electronically to your bank account.

Once your online application for SSDI has been completed, you will need to print out some forms and send them to the Social Security office. These forms include the Adult Disability Report and the necessary medial release forms.

These forms cannot be filled out online and must be sent into the office. If you do not mail these forms to the SSA, the Social Security office will not be able to process your application for Social Security Disability benefits and your claim will be denied.

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Does It Make a Difference If You Apply Online or In Person?

Many people assume that applying for Social Security Disability benefits online will result in a faster approval process. This is not necessarily the case. The amount of time it takes to process your Social Security Disability application will depend on your specific disability case.

While applying for disability online can save you the few days time it would take to set up an appointment and apply in the office, it does not reduce the time that it takes for the Social Security Administration to review your claim for Social Security Disability benefits.

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What To Have When Applying for SSDI Online

When you apply for SSDI online, you will need to have a variety of documents with you. First, you will need to gather some personal documents. You will need to show that you are U.S. citizen or have legal residency. You will also need to provide medical evidence and information about your work history.

Be sure to have ready:

• Birth certificate
• Proof of U.S. legal residency
• W-2 forms or federal tax return if you’re self-employed
• Social Security card
• Banking information
• Medical release form (SSA-827)
• Name and contact information for someone who the SSA can contact about your application
• Medical evidence to support your claim
  • Such as doctor’s notes, test results, x-rays, scans, prescriptions, etc.

The medical evidence you will need for your application will depend on what disabling condition you are experiencing. You can use the SSA’s Blue Book as a guide to determine what medical proof you need.

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Other Options You Have

While the online application for Social Security Disability benefits is quick and convenient, it is not for everyone. Certain cases do not qualify for the online application process.

If you are applying for Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability for a child, if you are a convicted felon or if you do not live in the United States, you cannot use the online application to apply for Social Security Disability benefits.

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A Matter of Preference

Whether you apply online for your Social Security Disability benefits or in person at the Social Security office is completely up to you. The ssdi application method you choose will have no impact on whether or not you qualify for Social Security Disability benefits.

If you are more comfortable applying from home, then use the tools available to you and apply online. If you prefer applying in person at the Social Security Office, then forgo the online process and call to set up an appointment for a Social Security Disability interview.

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Get Help Applying For SSDI Online

If you need assistance with your ssdi application, a disability attorney may be able to help. A lawyer can assist you in filling out your claim as well as help you gather the documents and paperwork needed for your ssdi application. To get connected with an independent, participating attorney who subscribes to the website, complete the Free Case Evaluation on this page today.

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Additional Resources

• How to Fill Out a Social Security Disability Claim Online
• Learn How to Navigate the SSA's Website and Apply for Disability Online
• SSI vs SSDI
• Why Might I Have to Apply in Person?
• Qualify for SSDI Benefits
• What is SSDI

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