Applying for Social Security Disability or SSI is not simply an event--it is a process and a commitment. There are loads of paperwork, phone calls, medical visits and medical records, and you'll probably be denied once or twice (or more!). Your disability application is the first step in the process, and not one to be taken lightly. Before you apply, there are 5 things you should understand first.
Tip #1: Don't take shortcuts.
You may be tempted to do whatever is quickest and easiest when it comes to providing information in your disability application and in your interview. This is a big mistake. Do the extra work to gather every detail you possibly can, and make sure your case worker at the SSA has everything BEFORE your interview. Don't give Social Security any reason to put your file on the shelf--a quick decision, even if it is a denial, is actually a good thing. Why? Because of tip #2.
Tip #2: Expect a denial.
Is this pessimistic? Not really. Most disabled applicants are denied at first, and many are quite obviously disabled. In fact, statistics show that many are denied at the next level as well. If you expect this and plan accordingly, you will be prepared to appeal as soon as the disability denial comes. If you are one of the lucky few who are approved immediately, congratulations. If not, appeal quickly and get your disability claim considered again as soon as possible. The point in the disability process where you have the best chance of being approved is at the hearing level.
Tip #3: Get your own medical records.
Social Security will tell you not to worry about getting your medical records, because the workers will do that for you. I suggest that you do not allow Social Security to request all of your medical information, for three reasons:
One, doctors are often intimidated by the formal requests Social Security sends, and they feel like their license may be in question if they give too strong a recommendation for you. Thus, only about 50% of doctors actually send records in to Social Security, leaving many disability claims without the necessary medical evidence.
Two, when Social Security requests records, it usually takes much longer to get them back and processed. This means you are waiting longer than you should.
And three, getting your own medical records allows you to speak with the doctor about your disability claim. Ask him or her about your ability to work, any restrictions he or she recommends, and ask if he or she would complete a medical questionnaire with questions specific to Social Security's medical requirements. If the doctor is supportive, he or she will be happy to provide you with all the paperwork you need. If not, you'll know it is time to find another doctor.
Tip #4: Get financial backup.
Since the process of applying for disability or SSI takes so long, you may want to have a backup plan for awhile. Do not wait until you are homeless to apply for Social Security benefits. Check with family members and friends, and be prepared to sell assets or use your savings, if applicable.
If your electricity or heating is being turned off, you are being kicked out of your home, you can't afford direly necessary medications, or your life is threatened by your disability, let Social Security know immediately as they may be able to expedite your case. If your situation is extremely dire, you can always contact your state representative and ask them to contact Social Security regarding your disability claim.
Tip #5: If you are applying for SSI and are working, watch your paycheck.
If you are able to work a little, Social Security will be watching to see if you can meet SGA, or Substantial Gainful Activity. This is an income limit that is dependent on a few different variables. Ask your case worker what your current limits are, as they increase every year. If you meet or exceed SGA, your application will automatically be denied. If you have already been approved, caution is even more important--your benefits will be discontinued and you may have to pay Social Security back.
Wherever you are in the Social Security disability process, best of luck.
Becca has been involved in the Social Security world since 1995 and enjoys watching the program change peoples' lives.
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