Making a claim for Social Security disability benefits begins with the filing of an application with the Social Security Administration. We strongly recommend hiring an experienced Social Security disability lawyer BEFORE filing an application. If you say the wrong thing in your application, or even if you say the right thing in the wrong way, you may permanently damage your chances of obtaining SSD benefits.
However, if you do decide to proceed on your own, the Social Security Administration makes the process fairly easy. You can complete some or all of the forms online at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability, or you can call the Social Security Administration’s toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, to schedule an appointment. You can find the most convenient Social Security office at www.socialsecurity.gov/locator. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call the toll-free “TTY” number, 1-800-325-0778, Monday through Friday.
The following suggestions are adapted from the Social Security Administration Web site:
If you are going to apply in person or by phone, there are certain items of information you should have with you. However, you should keep your appointment, even if you do not have all of the information. The Social Security Administration may be able to help you get any missing information. This is what you will need:
This is obviously a long and complex list of items and information. However, you will have a lot of time to get these materials together.
Remember, the more information you can provide to the Social Security Administration, the less work they will have to do in order to make a decision on your claim. Remember also that Kraft & Associates, P.C., will be glad to consult with you at any stage of your claim.