4. What is the application process like?
It’s relatively easy to file a disability claim, but this application process is slightly more complex than the 15 minute application process for Social Security retirement benefits.
You can apply for disability benefits online at www.socialsecurity.gov, with the following information:
- Your Social Security number
- Your birth certificate
- Medical information, such as names of doctors and hospitals where you’ve received care, medications you take, medical records you have, and relevant lab test results
- Details of your work history
- Your most recent W-2 or tax return
After applying these pieces of information, there are other forms that must be completed. You’ll need to file a form that tells the SSA information about your health condition. Your healthcare professionals may need to fill out forms as well. Then the SSA will make a decision on whether you meet its criteria of “being disabled” or not.
