Applying for Social Security Benefits
In order to obtain for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits you need to contact the Social Security Administration and apply.
There are three ways that you can apply for SSDI benefits:
- You can fill out and file an application online at ssa.gov;
- You can call social security at 1-800-772-1213 (or for those with difficulty hearing 1-800-325-0778) and speak with a representative who will help you complete and file an application; or
- You can go to your local social security office and get an application and file it right there at the office.
Unfortunately, the only way you can file for SSI benefits is to go your local social security office and complete and file an application.
When applying for benefits, it is a common misconception that all you need to do is simply complete your demographic information (i.e. your name, address, phone number social security number, ect.) and social security will take care of the rest for you. This is simply not the case and it is a big reason why many claims are denied at the initial application stage. Cases are often denied because the application was not properly and fully completed, or because the SSA was unable to obtain then necessary information it needs to make a favorable decision. Don’t let this happen to you.
When completing an application you need to be as thorough as possible. You need to list any and all information regarding your medical conditions, doctors you have seen (including names, address and phone numbers), hospitals you have been to for ER visits and/or overnight stays (including names, address, and phone numbers), all jobs you have held over the fifteen year period prior to your disability, your educational history and in the case of an SSI application all your current assets. Although gathering this may seem burdensome and tedious, it is vital to receiving a favorable decision in your case. Therefore, it is advisable that you get all of this information, or at least as much of it as you can, together prior to applying for benefits. In addition to the information you need to provide on your application, SSA will send you forms that you must complete and return promptly. Failure to complete and return the requested documents could delay your claim and/or end with a denial of your benefits.
The majority of applications for SSD and SSI benefits are denied at the initial application. This is true irrespective of whether you have provided social security with all of the information listed in the previous paragraph; however, you will stand a much better chance of getting approved at this stage if you are thorough in obtaining the necessary information. Even if you are not approved at the initial stage, being thorough with this information will help you, or your attorney, in the reconsideration or hearing stage of your claim.
Due to the need for your application to be completed as accurately and thoroughly as possible, it is advisable for you to obtain an attorney who is skilled with handling Social Security cases to help you with the application process. We at Allen Stewart, P.C. have an understanding of what it takes to get your application approved so if you are contemplating filing for benefits, please contact us immediately.
