Applying for Social Security Disability: What You Need To Know
Social Security Disability benefits are designed to assist individuals whose disabilities prevent them from working and who meet specific medical criteria. This federal program provides financial support not only to the disabled individual but also to certain family members. However, understanding how to apply for Social Security Disability can be challenging. Having an experienced SSD attorney from Sharry & Monfette, LLP by your side can significantly improve your chances of success.
Attorney Christopher Sharry offers professional yet compassionate legal assistance to those who are disabled and in need of help. If you are facing a disability, consider the Worcester, MA law firm of Sharry & Monfette, LLP. We are well-regarded by clients, fellow attorneys, and judges alike for being honest, skilled, straightforward, and caring. Our attorneys approach each case with integrity and strategy, always prioritizing the best interests of our clients. Whether you need guidance on forms needed to apply, information needed to apply, or understanding the number of times one can apply, we are here to fight smart and fair on your behalf. Contact us for a free case evaluation.
How to Apply for Social Security Disability?
If you are disabled and in need of financial assistance, understanding how to apply for Social Security Disability benefits is crucial. The process can be complex, and even a minor error can result in delays or a denial of benefits. At Sharry & Monfette, LLP, our dedicated SSD attorneys are here to protect and advocate for you and your family, working tirelessly to secure a successful outcome on your behalf.
While it is possible to apply for Social Security Disability on your own, the application process involves many details that can be overwhelming. To start, you can contact your local Social Security office to schedule an appointment for completing your application. For the initial application you must be sure to have all the information needed to apply.
Another option is to apply for Social Security Disability benefits online, allowing you to complete the application from the comfort of your home and avoid trips to the Social Security office. However, applying on your own carries the risk of omitting crucial details, which could lead to a denial of your claim. To ensure your application is accurate and complete the first time, consider working with the attorneys at Sharry & Monfette. Attorney Christopher Sharry will handle every aspect of your case, including any necessary appeals, to help you navigate the process from start to finish. Contact us for a free case evaluation.
What Forms Are Needed to Apply for Social Security Disability?
There are several essential forms that must be completed when applying for social security disability (SSD) benefits, whether you apply in person, over the phone, online, or through your attorney’s office. These forms include:
- SSA-16-BK: This is the primary application form for Social Security Disability benefits, consisting of 33 questions. Most of these questions are straightforward, asking for information such as your address, employment history, and details about your spouse and children. However, two questions are particularly critical: the onset date of your disability and the specifics of your disability. The onset date is crucial as it affects the amount of backpay you may receive if your application is approved. If your disability began with a specific event, such as an accident, this date is easier to determine. However, if your disability is due to a gradually worsening illness, pinpointing the onset date can be more challenging. Generally, the onset date is when your condition started significantly impacting your ability to work. Question 24 asks for details about your illness, injury, or condition that limits your ability to work. It’s important to provide a thorough, specific answer—detailing conditions like degenerative disc disease rather than simply stating “a bad back”—to improve your chances of approval.
- SSA-3368-BK (Adult Disability Report): This form allows you to describe the nature of your disability, whether mental or physical, including when your symptoms began, the treatments you have received, and where you received those treatments. You will also need to explain how your condition prevents you from working.
- SSA-3369-BK (Work History Report): This report helps the Social Security Administration (SSA) understand how your illness, injury, or condition affects your ability to perform the work you are qualified to do. It provides the SSA with a clearer picture of your work limitations due to your disability.
- SSA-827-BK (Authorization to Disclose Information to the Social Security Administration): This form authorizes the SSA to obtain all relevant medical and educational records that support or deny your claim. This is a crucial step in verifying the details of your disability.
These forms can be overwhelming for the average person. We are here to alleviate the stress and intimidation that often accompanies the SSD application process, guiding you through each step to ensure your forms are accurate and complete. Contact us for a free case evaluation.
What Information is Necessary When Applying for Social Security Disability?
You’ll need to provide a range of important information to support your claim when applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. The required information includes:
- Your Social Security Number
- Proof of Your Age: A certified birth certificate is typically required.
- Medical Information: You’ll need to provide the names, addresses, and phone numbers of each doctor, hospital, clinic, or caseworker who has treated you for your illness, injury, or condition. Additionally, you should include the dates of each medical visit related to your disability application.
- Medications: A list of the names and dosages of all medications you are currently taking that relate to your disability.
- Medical Records: Any medical records in your possession that support your disability claim, including lab or test results.
- Work History: A summary of your work history, including a description of the type of work you have performed.
- Income Documentation: Your most recent W-2 form. If you are self-employed, a copy of your most recent federal tax return will be necessary.
- Family Information: Social Security numbers and proof of age for each family member who may qualify for benefits.
- Marital Information: Proof of marriage and dates of any prior marriages, if applicable.
It’s important to note that even if you don’t have all the required documents readily available, you should not delay filing for SSD benefits. Our attorneys are here to assist you in gathering all the necessary information to support your application. Do not hesitate to contact us today for a free case evaluation.
How Many Times Can a Person Apply for Social Security Disability?
There is no limit on the number of times you can apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. However, before deciding to reapply, it’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable SSD attorney. In many cases, filing an appeal may be a more effective approach than submitting a new application. An experienced SSD attorney from Sharry & Monfette, LLP, will carefully evaluate your situation to determine whether reapplying or pursuing an appeal is the best course of action.
Do You Need Help With Your Social Security Disability Application?
We will provide help with your social security disability application. With law office in Worcester, Massachusetts, we serve Social Security Disability clients throughout the state, including Worcester County, Middlesex County, Norfolk County, and the cities of Boston, Brockton, Cambridge, Chicopee, Fall River, Framingham, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Lynn, New Bedford, Newton, Quincy, Somerville, Springfield, Waltham, Worcester, and more. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
Related Links
Applying for Disability When You’re Over 50
Qualifying for Disability Benefits Because of Mental Illnesses
Qualifying for Disability Benefits Because of Physical Impairments
