To apply for disability benefits, follow these general steps based on U.S. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs:
When to Apply
- Apply as soon as you become disabled. SSDI benefits have a five-month waiting period before payments begin, starting the first full month after your disability onset date. SSI benefits start from the month you file or become eligible
How to Apply
You can apply in three ways:
- Online: Through the Social Security Administration (SSA) website.
- By phone: Call SSA toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for hearing impaired).
- In person: Visit your local SSA office (call ahead to make an appointment)
What You Need to Prepare
Gather the following information and documents:
- Personal identification (birth certificate, citizenship or immigration status).
- Medical records and contacts of your doctors, hospitals, and clinics.
- Employment history for the past 2 years.
- Details on your disability, including when it started and how it limits your ability to work.
- Information on your spouse and children (if applicable).
- Bank information for direct deposit of benefits
Application Forms and Process
- Complete the main application form (Form SSA-16).
- You may be asked to fill out additional forms such as:
- Function Report (Form SSA-3373-BK) describing how your disability affects daily activities.
- Work History Report (Form SSA-3369-BK).
- Work Activity Report (Form SSA-821-BK).
- Third-party Function Report (Form SSA-3380-BK) from someone who knows your condition well
After Applying
- A disability analyst will review your case and medical evidence to determine if you meet the strict Social Security definition of disability, which requires total disability lasting at least one year or expected to result in death
- Be prepared to provide additional medical documentation if requested.
Additional Resources
- The Disability Starter Kit from SSA helps you prepare for the application.
- SSA provides publications explaining the disability evaluation process and benefits
If you are applying in other countries or for state disability programs, procedures and forms may differ (e.g., California's EDD or Ireland's Disability Allowance)
. In summary, start your application promptly by gathering necessary documents, choose your preferred application method (online, phone, or in- person), complete the required forms honestly and thoroughly, and follow up as needed with medical evidence and additional information
