There are multiple ways to apply for Social Security disability. You can apply in person at a local Social Security Administration office (when offices are open), online, or over the phone. You will need the same information no matter how you complete your application. One way is not necessarily easier than another. Instead, it is a matter of personal preference.
Regardless of how you apply, there are two things that you can do to ensure that the Social Security disability application process is as easy and stress-free as possible.
Gather All Necessary Information Before You Start Your Disability Application
Preparation is essential to an easy Social Security disability application process. Before you apply over the phone, online, or in person, we encourage you to gather all of the information that you will need to answer the Social Security Administration’s questions. This information includes, but may not be limited to:
- A U.S. birth certificate or proof of U.S citizenship or lawful alien status if you were born outside of the United States
- Last year’s W-2 form or your self-employment tax return
- Medical evidence of your disability that you have in your possession. Medical evidence may include recent test results, medical records, and doctors’ reports
- A completed Adult Disability Report. The Adult Disability Report (Form SSA-3368-BK) asks for information about you, a contact other than a doctor who knows about your medical condition, your medical conditions, your work activity, your education and training, your work history, your medications, your medical treatments, your healthcare providers, and whether you’ve participated in vocational rehabilitation or employment services
- Any documentation such as award letters, pay stubs, or settlement agreements regarding any workers’ compensation benefits you received
You should also provide copies of your U.S. military discharge papers if you served in the military before 1968.
Additionally, you should be ready to thoroughly and honestly answer questions, such as whether you:
- Or your spouse ever worked in the railroad industry
- Ever received Social Security credits from a foreign country’s Social Security system
- Qualify for or expect to receive a pension or annuity for government work
- Are married and when you got married
- Have minor children or children with disabilities under the age of 22
- Have a parent who is dependent on you
- Have received or expect to receive money from your employer since you’ve been unable to work
Other information may also be required.
The information described above may seem simple enough to obtain and enter into a Social Security disability application. However, the majority of initial disability claims are denied and many of these denials are for issues that could’ve been avoided.
Contact a Social Security Disability Lawyer Before You Apply for Benefits
An experienced Social Security disability lawyer knows what the Social Security Administration is looking for on your application and how to avoid unnecessary denials that could significantly delay your benefits.
Our conveniently located Natick Social Security disability lawyers represent clients in the New England states of New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. While Social Security disability law is a federal law, there are benefits to hiring a local Social Security disability attorney. Our lawyers not only know how to complete initial Social Security disability claims, but we also know local hearing officers and what they are looking for if you need to appeal your claim.
When you hire us, we will represent you from the time you decide to apply for disability benefits until you begin receiving monthly benefits. We will handle every aspect of your case, answer all of your questions promptly, and provide you with skilled legal representation for the same cost as a Social Security disability advocate.
Are You Looking for a Social Security Disability Attorney in Boston, MA?
If you are looking to apply for Social Security disability, you need to speak with an experienced Social Security disability lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Natick Office directly at 888.904.6847 to schedule your free consultation.
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