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By compiling all the paperwork required for your Social Security Disability (SSD) application, you can increase your chances of getting disability benefits. You can also improve your odds of approval by:
- Checking all paperwork for accuracy and completion
- Following the filing procedures located on the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) website
- Considering legal aid
Applying for SSD payments is a complicated and time-consuming process. On your own, it can also be daunting. While you cope with your disabling condition and start planning your future, our legal team will help you navigate the SSD application process, even filing an appeal on your behalf if your initial application for benefits is denied.
What Paperwork Do I Need for My SSD Application?
The SSA’s guidelines call for documents that prove the nature and extent of your disability, employment history, personal finances, and more. Gathering these documents is an important part of the application process.
Your SSD application will require that you submit your:
- Social Security card
- Birth certificate
- Proof of citizenship status
- Proof of income
- Proof of financial resources
- Proof of residency
- Medical information
- Employment history
Proving each of these things requires multiple documents, and each document will come from its own source. Our SSD attorney can help you understand where to obtain each document and help you create a complete and organized application packet.
When Should I Start Gathering These Documents Together?
Immediately. The sooner you have your paperwork in order, the sooner your application can be processed. The SSA suggests starting your claim as soon as you become disabled. In doing so, you preserve the original documents you need to bolster your application. It is advisable to make and retain copies of every document that you provide.
You Should Include Medical Documentation with Your Application
The SSA has a Listing of Impairments which lists disabilities that qualify for benefits. Yet, having your disability on the list does not automatically grant you benefits. You will need to submit supporting documentation with your application, which may include:
- Copies of your x-rays and imaging scans
- The names of any prescribed medications
- The names of your healthcare providers
- The dates and names of any procedures you underwent
- Statements from your healthcare provider
With this information, you can assert that because you have a disability, you have trouble financially supporting yourself.
What’s on the SSA’s Listing of Impairments?
The Listing of Impairments (also known as the “Blue Book”) lists these conditions:
- Cancers
- Skin disorders
- Mental disorders
- Endocrine disorders
- Congenital disorders
- Respiratory disorders
- Neurological disorders
- Genitourinary disorders
- Hematological disorders
- Immune system disorders
- Digestive system disorders
- Sense and speech disorders
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Cardiovascular system disorders
Being diagnosed with a disability on this list and having the documentation to support your diagnosis can increase your likelihood of approval. Your lawyer will help you obtain and organize the evidence that substantiates your diagnosis.
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How Can a Lawyer Help with My Application?
You do not have to struggle through the SSD application process on your own. Our SSD team can serve you by:
- Helping you complete your application
- Ensuring your forms are accurate
- Determining what medical evidence you should include
- Keeping you updated on your application’s progression
- Representing you at SSD hearings
Our attorney will also help you file an appeal, if needed.
We Will Explain What Disability Program Could Meet Your Needs
After listening to your story, our team will determine whether you’re applying to the disability program that suits your situation. There are two types of disability programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Here’s the difference between the two:
- SSDI is a work credit-based program for those who have “paid into” the Social Security system.
- SSI is for individuals with little financial resources. This is not a work credit-based system but instead, depends on a claimant’s countable resources.
When you submit your application, SSA officials will review:
- Your application for completion
- Your submitted documents
- Your employment history
- Your medical evidence
Our team is ready to help regardless of what program you’re applying for. We pride ourselves on advocating for people who need disability benefits to live full and happy lives.
We Will Review Your SSD Case for Free
Is the SSD application process overwhelming you? We can help. Find out how you can increase your chances of getting disability benefits by reviewing your case with one of our team members today.
Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC has six attorneys, four offices, and a commitment to each of its clients. Contact our consultation team at (828) 286-3866 today.
