Can I Apply For Social Security Disability Benefits Online?

While many of our government’s administrative agencies may seem stuck in the stone ages with long waiting lines and less-than-ideal service, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is one of the agencies that have joined us in the 21rst century with an array of online services. One of these services is online SSD applications. If you’ve been wondering whether or not you can apply for SSD online, the following FAQs will provide you with the information you’ve been looking for.

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What Are the Benefits of Applying for SSD Benefits Online?

First and foremost, you don’t have to worry about a drive to the local SSA office, finding a place to park and then waiting in long lines. You simply open up the SSA’s benefits application webpage and begin the application process right from the comfort of your very own home. In addition, applying for SSD benefits online allow you to start your SSD claim immediately without waiting for an appointment.

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Are There Any Restrictions for Online Disability Applications?

You can use the SSA’s online SSD Benefits application tools as long as you are over 18 years of age, have worked in the past and paid Social Security taxes long enough to qualify for disability and have a medical condition that has prevented you from working for at least one year (or is expected to last a minimum of 12 months).

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What Do I Need to Do to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits Online

When you are applying for Social Security Disability benefits online you will want to be prepared. This means reviewing the Adult Disability Checklist that is available at the Social Security website. Once you have reviewed the checklist and have it in hand, you can then begin filling in the online Social Security Disability application. You will also need to fill out an Adult Disability report and print the Authorization to Disclose Information Forms and sign and mail those forms to your Social Security Office.

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Does Applying Online Get Me Approved Faster?

Yes and no. Technically, when you apply for Social Security Disability benefits online, you have to go through the same application process as everyone else. However, applying online does give you a jumpstart because you do not have to wait for the initial appointment that would otherwise be needed to fill out your Social Security Disability application paperwork.

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Can I Apply For Benefits Online for a Child?

Parts of the Social Security Disability application process can be completed online if you are applying for benefits on behalf of a child. However, not all parts of the application process are available online when applying for a child’s benefits so you will need to schedule an appointment at your local Social Security Office.

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How Long Will It Take to Apply for Benefits?

The amount of time it takes for you to fill out the application will depend on a number of factors including your work history, the specifics of your application and how fast you are able to type. Typically, the average online SSD application takes anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes to complete.

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Additional Resources

• Why Might I Have to Apply in Person?

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