Take A Tour Of The Social Security Disability Application

Law Blog

Those unable to work at their job because of a medical condition should not waste time before applying for benefits because the approval process can be slow. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available for those who have worked enough and who meet the medical qualifications for approval. There are several ways to apply for benefits so read on for a walk-through the SSA-16-BK form—the Application for Disability Insurance Benefits.

Apply Online, Over the Phone, by Mail, or in Person

If you have access to a computer, you can apply online. You can also print out a paper application and mail it in using the Social Security Administration (SSA) website. If you prefer to call them, you can phone the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or (TTY) 1-800-325-0778. If you are near a SSA office, blank application forms are available for pick up. Finally, if you would like to fill out a form with the assistance of an SSA worker, you can appear at your nearest office. You don't need an appointment, but you can save some wait time if you do call ahead.

An Overview of the Application

The form is of moderate length. There are about 33 questions to be answered, and it consists of about five pages of questions and a couple of pages with privacy and other reading that is for informational purposes, making it 7 pages long in total.

Gather Your Information

You can make the application process far easier by assembling the following information in preparation for filling out the form:

• If you were born in the United States, you will need your birth certificate
• If you were not born in the United States, you will need proof of citizenship
• Military discharge papers
• W-2 or other proof of employment, such as tax returns for the previous tax year
• Medical records, doctors reports, and other medical information that details your disability
• Information about previous employers

Routine Questions

You can expect to be asked your name, address, Social Security number, the names of past employers, and about your family. You won't need any special proof or documentation to fill out this part of the applicant, but if the SSA does need to see proof, they will contact you by mail.

Pay Special Attention to Two Issues

Unlike the routine questions, there are two areas in particular where care should be taken when filling out the information.

Question 10 – Date you became unable to work. The answer to this question is important because the SSA calculates how much back pay you are entitled to based on the information you provide. The date must be accurate because it will be verified by reviewing your medical records. The further back you go in time, the greater your back pay will be.

Question 24 – Illnesses, injuries, or conditions that limit your ability to work. This is where you explain your condition and how it affects your job tasks. Be as detailed as you can and use proper medical terms when possible. List all conditions that affect your ability to work. More space is available using the "Remarks" space.

If your application is properly filled out, you may still end up being denied benefits. If so, speak to a Social Security attorney for help during your appeal hearing. For more information, reach out to law firms like Parmele Law Firm, PC.

27 January 2019