7 Things to Know Before Applying for SSDI Benefits
Individuals with disabilities can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). It is a program by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that pays monthly benefits to eligible applicants who cannot work for a year or more because of their condition. Unfortunately, many are unsure if they qualify for disability benefits or do not know how to apply for disability benefits online. Although the process is not complicated, there are a few critical things to know.
What are the qualification requirements?
To qualify for SSDI benefits, one needs to meet specific requirements set by the SSA. Firstly, the individual should have worked long enough before their disability in jobs covered by Social Security. Working in such jobs helps earn “work credits.” Applicants must have sufficient credits (usually 40) to qualify. One can earn up to four work credits a year. Those who do not have enough credits may file for SSI disability online. SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, is another SSA-backed disability program.
The second requirement for qualification is that the individual’s health condition must meet the SSA’s definition of disability. For instance, they should not be able to engage in what the SSA calls “substantial gainful activity (SGA).” Engaging in SGA, in simple terms, refers to working and earning above a certain minimum amount per month. That means anyone making more money than the SGA threshold is, by definition, “not disabled.” In addition, the disability should have lasted or should be estimated to last for at least a year. Note that the SSA also considers special situations, such as blindness or low vision, when qualifying people for SSDI benefits.
What are the ways to apply?
There are multiple ways to apply for SSDI disability. The most common, and perhaps the most convenient, is via an online application. One needs to visit the SSA’s official website, go to the “Apply for Benefits” page, and follow the steps to complete the application. Those who do not want to apply for disability online can visit their local Social Security office for in-person assistance. It is also possible to apply by calling 1-800-772-1213 between 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.
What are the documents required?
Filing for SSDI involves a lot of paperwork. It is advisable to keep critical information about the person, their work history, and health condition handy. Some must-have personal and health documents include but are not limited to:
Social Security number
Birth certificate
ID card or driver’s license
Work history information (recent salary statements, name and address of past employers, etc.)
Health condition information (test reports, dates of treatments, doctors’ names, patient ID numbers, etc.)
Recent W-2 forms and/or self-employment tax returns
One can view the “Adult Disability Checklist” on the SSA’s website to know what is needed to complete the application. Remember that the more relevant the proofs are, the better the chances of the application being accepted. It may be rejected or delayed even if a single critical document is missing.
When to apply for disability?
One can and must apply for disability benefits immediately after being diagnosed with a disease that keeps them from working. That is because it can take a long time, from several months to a year, for the application to be processed. The SSA does not pay benefits for the months before the application’s effective date. There is also a five-month waiting period between the onset of the disability and when the individual receives their first payout. So, applying on time ensures the person starts to receive the amount sooner.
What does the application and verification process look like?
Regardless of whether one applies for disability via an online application, in-person appointment, or by phone, the process from start to finish looks like this:
The applicant collects the necessary information and documents.
They fill out and submit the application.
The SSA reviews the application to ensure the basic requirements are met.
They verify whether the applicant has worked sufficiently long and evaluate their current work situation.
The SSA processes and forwards the form to the Disability Determination Service (DDS) office in the applicant’s state.
The DDS determines if the applicant meets the disability criteria.
The applicant receives a letter in the mail with the SSA’s decision.
The SSA website is easy to navigate and has helpful resources that ensure people understand the process and prepare accordingly.
What to do if the application is denied?
It is worth pointing out that more than half of the SSDI applications are denied during the initial review. The two most common rejection reasons include earning more than the SGA threshold and the disability not being long or severe enough to come under the SSA’s disability rules. If the application is denied and one disagrees with the agency’s decision, they have the right to ask for a review. The SSA’s website has two different forms (for health and non-health reasons) to appeal. Alternatively, the individual may call them toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 to request an appeal.
How to get assistance with filing the claim?
Too many documents and the SSA’s strict eligibility criteria make filing for SSDI benefits daunting for many. They do not receive help until after their first denial. If a person believes they have a strong case, or even if uncertain, it may be prudent to seek professional help. A Social Security attorney or even a non-attorney advocate can offer guidance at every step to make filing the claim easier. Remember, quality assistance can also lower the chances of getting rejected and prevent delays in claim approval.
