Applying for disability can be a daunting task that no one wants to go through, unfortunately, if you want to receive benefits you have to. Applying for disability is very much like a prolonged job application that never seems to end. Get coffee, jump up and down, you can do calisthenics, watch some TV but don’t stop the process. Get someone to keep you company so you can stay focused. Once you start the application you become a disability applicant more commonly called a claimant.

Required Forms

The required forms to complete your application are long and new blanks continue to appear. If you are physically unable to complete the process or think you cannot, choose a family member or friend to help you. Otherwise, enlist the help of an attorney or disability advocate. Completing the application yourself does give you a sense of satisfaction and you have first-hand knowledge of the application process.

The completed application is the first step in the process of filing a claim. The requirements are precise. You do not have to complete the entire application in one sitting, but there are stories that if you stop, the whole application can be lost even if you save it. Try to complete the application in one sitting. Please recognize that the sooner you complete your application, the quicker it can be processed. 

You Need The Cooperation Of Your Designated Health Care Provider

You need to solicit the full cooperation of all your treatment providers. You should not apply without it. Your treatment providers should agree that your current medical condition(s) qualifies you for disability. 

How To Let Your Doctor Know You Need Disability

Speak with your doctor directly or via letter to ensure your treatment providers know exactly how your medical condition(s) cause you to be disabled or disrupt your life. In addition, your disability provider may contact your doctor to fill out a form.

Why You May Be Examined By Someone Other Than Your Doctor

When your medical records are scanty or don’t support your subjective complaints, the SSA may require that you be examined by a physician other than your primary care doctor. This examination is referred to as a Consultative Examination. This examination is a “demand” that you must submit to. You cannot avoid this examination if you do your claim will be denied. It can be rescheduled but must be completed.

Medical Records Must Support Your Claim 

Your medical records have to support your disabling complaints. If your medical records are incomplete, additional information will be required. Doctors assigned by the SSA to complete examinations are not designed to support your claim.

The Checklist

Before you apply for disability, prepare yourself by gathering all the required documentation. Social Security has prepared a Checklist – Adult Disability Interview. You can print this form out. It will be easier to follow. The benefits are that you will know ahead of time exactly what items are needed.

The Application 

Whether you choose the online option, phone interview, or in person at a Social Security office, the same checklist items need to be in your possession. Don’t delay the process of applying; if you do not have “all” of the items on the checklist, make sure obtaining those items is a priority.

Have The Talk With Your Doctor

It is wise to go to your treatment providers personally and request your records when applying for disability. You may or may not have to pay a fee. Some facilities can bill you if asked. 

Documentation 

Documentation regarding marriages, divorces, information documenting the birthdates of your children, checking or savings account information can be beneficial. Social security may want to contact a third party who can provide information about you.

Be prepared to name a person you do not mind knowing information about you (call that person carefully and make sure they understand how your disabling condition impacts your life). Be prepared to be contacted if you cannot be reached (choose that person carefully). 

Medical Authorization 

Make sure you sign a medical release Form SSA-827 (Authorization to Disclose Information to the Social Security Administration), fill out the Medical and Job Worksheet – Adult). Bring this information with you or have it available when you are interviewed with the SSA, when answering questions over the phone or if you apply in person. If you mail this information, send it as directed.

Be Prepared To List All Medical Providers

You will need to be prepared to provide extensive information about which healthcare providers such as Physicians, Psychiatrists, Psychologists, or Therapists from whom you may have received treatment. List names and treatment types that you received from any hospitals, urgent care centers, emergency room, or clinic for at least the past five years. 

You need to provide the exact names and addresses of “all” your medical treatment providers. Provide the most current records (90 days) of medical information with your application. This is crucial. Be prepared to list any and all medications you may have taken or are currently taking (if you are unsure, contact your pharmacy to obtain a list).

You will need to provide your job history information for at least fifteen years (if you can’t remember, social security will have a list), you can request a copy. In addition, you should have a list of your educational history and any vocational training you may have received, this can be very helpful in determining your past work history and training. There is a Work History History Report Form-3369 BK. If there is confusion about past work history: Complete a Request For Social Security Earnings-Form 7050-74.

Take Away(s) 

Completion of your disability application may sound like a given but it’s not. Many Social Security applicants when completing their application online have found to their dismay that they left two important forms not completed. Those forms included the Disability Report-3368 Adult and the Authorization To Disclose Information To Social Security Administration Form – 827. A completed application can be a winning application.

Remember you need the cooperation of your healthcare providers. Your treating doctor must agree that you are entitled to disability benefits. If they do not agree it’s almost impossible to win your claim. Medical records complete your application. Medical records are the “bread and butter “ of your claim. Have the, “I need disability talk with your doctor.”  Check and recheck to make sure all your past medical record information is provided so this can be accessed from your providers. The SSA will need this information to make a successful determination of your claim.