What Information will I need to apply for SSDI?

The Social Security Administration will require you to provide certain information when applying for Social Security Disability Insurance.

Author Attorney Lloyd Bemis:

Once you’ve decided on the application method that will work best for you- online, by phone, or in person- you will need to gather the information required to file a claim.

In most instances, the Social Security Administration will only accept original documents or certified copies certified by the original issuing agency. If you need help applying call 512-454-4000

In most instances, the Social Security Administration will only accept original documents or certified copies certified by the original issuing agency (i.e., a replacement birth certificate). Regular copies are not accepted. For difficult-to-replace documents, it may be best to bring the document to the Social Security Office in person rather than risk losing it in the mail. The Social Security Administration asks specifically that you do not send any documentation from the Department of Homeland Security or foreign birth records through the mail. There are three categories of documentation you will need: identifying records, work and financial history records, and medical records.

Identifying records:

Identifying records includes all information the Social Security Administration needs to verify that you are who you say are.
These records are also used to determine if you are eligible for benefits and are also helpful for determining if your family members are eligible for auxiliary benefits.
You will want to know:

•     The names and birthdates of all your children
•     Marriage/divorce dates and spouse’s names
•     Your Social Security Number and the Social Security numbers of your spouse and children
•     Your criminal history- If you have a criminal record, be forthcoming and honest. It is rare for an application to be denied for this reason, but the Social Security Administration will ask for information pertaining to your record.

You will want to have:

•     Your Birth Certificate
•     Proof of U.S. citizenship if you are not native-born
•     Your Social Security Card
•     You may want to have the marriage certificates and final decree of divorce available.

Work and Financial Records:

The Social Security Administration will require information pertaining to the last fifteen years of your career in order to evaluate your ability to perform your job.
It is highly recommended that you take time beforehand to compile your work history information. Many applicants do not prepare beforehand and end up answering the work history section incompletely or insufficiently.

Work and Financial Records that may be Required:

•     Your work history- dates, contact info, general description of the last fifteen years of your career
•     W-2s, 1099s or other documentation displaying proof of income
•     Your tax return from the previous year
•     Military service records- dates of service, rank and branch, discharge papers if applicable
•     Any papers you have regarding Workers Compensation or any other disability benefit you have received.

Know what you have in the way of assets- review your bank accounts, stocks, real estate, etc… Social Security Disability Insurance eligibility is not based on your assets, but if you know what you have you may find you are eligible for SSI or other programs that may be able to provide you with additional assistance.

Medical Records

Medical records are the most important aspect of your claim.
Having comprehensive and coherent medical records is the key to a successful claim. When you speak with your doctor, let them know how your condition affects your ability to work. Disability Determination Services looks at the relationship between your condition and your job, it is vital that they have as complete an understanding as possible.
You will want to have the following information available:

•     Contact information for all facilities where you have been treated for the condition you are claiming disability for.
•     The dates of every time you were treated for the condition you are claiming disability for.
•     Documentation relating to any drugs you have been prescribed- At least the names and dosages.
•     Any records relating to any medical testing you have undergone.

You will also be asked you fill out a disability report which will require much of the above-listed information.
Once you have gathered the documents and information listed above you are ready to apply.

Author: Attorney Lloyd Bemis has been practicing law for over 35 years. He is Superlawyers rated by Thomson Reuters and is Top AV Preeminent® and Client Champion Gold rated by Martindale Hubbell. Through his extensive litigation Mr. Bemis obtained dual board certifications from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Lloyd is admitted to practice in the United States District Court - all Texas Districts and has argued before the U.S. Court of Appeals, Fifth Circuit. Mr. Bemis is a member of the Travis County Bar Association. He has been active in the American Association for Justice and is a past Director of the Capital Area Trial Lawyers Association. Mr. Bemis and all the members of Bemis, Roach & Reed have been active participants in the Travis County Lawyer referral service.