What Is The Easiest Way To Apply For Disability Benefits?

If you are unable to work because of a medical condition, you may be eligible to receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). You will need to get your claim underway. There are multiple ways to apply, including online, over the phone, or by scheduling an in-person appointment at your local SSA field office and speaking with a representative. Regardless of the way you choose to apply, you will need to have hard medical evidence and supporting documentation ready. Here is a closer look at the easiest way to apply for disability benefits.

Applying For Disability Online

For most people applying for disability benefits online may be the easiest option. You can apply from the comfort of home, in an office, at a friend’s house, or in a public place, such as a library. If you have access to a computer and Internet access, you can complete the application. You can even have someone apply online on your behalf. This could be a friend, a relative, a caseworker, a disability advocate, or a disability lawyer to do the online application for you. No appointment is necessary for an online application.

Applying For Disability Benefits Over The Phone

If you need the help of a knowledgeable SSA representative, applying over the phone is easiest option. The representative can answer your questions and take your information. You will need to provide the representative with the details that are needed for your claim to be approved. You can also authorize another person to speak on your behalf and to represent you through the claims process.

What To Have When Applying For Disability Benefits

To make the claims process easier, there are several documents that you need when you apply for disability benefits. You should gather all these documents and have them readily available, so you can provide the necessary answers as you complete the disability claim form.

• Medical records already in your possession – the SSA will request any other medical records from the medical provider’s office
• Worker’s compensation information, such as any settlement agreement, the claim number, the date of injury, the accident report, and proof of any disability payment amounts
• The names and dates of birth of your spouse and any minor children
• Dates of any marriages and/or divorces
• Checking or savings account details including the bank’s nine-digit routing number and the account number, so your payments can be sent via direct deposit
• Name, address, and phone number of an alternate contact – this should be a person that the SSA can contact on your behalf if they cannot reach you
• A signed and completed medical release, which is Form SSA-8827
• If you are not filing online, complete the Medical and Job Worksheet – Adult

Getting Your Claim Underway

If you are unable to work and are ready to apply for disability benefits, consider enlisting the help and guidance of a disability lawyer. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form to share the details of your claim with an attorney’s office.

Additional Resources

• What Forms Do You Need to Apply for Disability?
• Can I Apply For Social Security Disability Benefits Online?
• 7 Tips for First Time SSD Applicants