If you are no longer able to work and are considering applying for Social Security Disability benefits, the first step is to navigate through the application process. Filling out a Social Security Disability application can take several hours or days, and the process can be frustrating and often confusing.
Knowing how to fill out a Social Security Disability application correctly can help make the difference between being approved immediately and having to face months of years of appeals. Here are a few tips to help you successfully and accurately complete your initial Social Security Disability application. Provizer & Phillips will help you complete the application process.

Before You Begin the Application

There are several steps you need to take before you start filling out the actual application. Begin by gathering as much pertinent medical information as you can to support your claim. This could include doctor's notes, tests results, doctor's orders, and anything else that will show the SSA that you can no longer work.

Sending medical evidence to support your disability claim along with your application can sometimes help speed up the process. If you don't send the information, the claim's examiner will need to contact all your doctors are ask for the information. Often, it can take weeks for your physicians to send the necessary documentation, and it is not uncommon for the information to be incomplete.

Create a list of your conditions, including the symptoms, and how these conditions impact your everyday life. A portion of the SSDI application is reserved for your medical history and quality of life, so taking the time to thoroughly write down your symptoms and day-to-day struggles will help you accurately complete your application.

Understand the Various Sections

The application, otherwise known as the adult disability report, or ADR, is divided into several sections. Take the time to read through each section, and write down your answers on a separate sheet of paper, or in a document on your computer. This will allow you to formulate an accurate and thoughtful answer for each question.

Pay special attention to the sections that ask you to list your medical conditions and any past and current work experiences. These sections are where you can highlight any and all medical conditions that are contributing to your inability to work. For example, if you are suffering from epilepsy, don't hesitate to also make note of any other conditions that you are receiving care for, such as high blood pressure or depression.

Take your time and be thorough when filling out the section that deals with your past and current work history. This section provides you with the opportunity to write about the challenges that your disability creates, regarding supporting yourself. In this section, you also be asked to provide a specific date that your disability impacted your ability to work.

Do not choose the last day you resigned from your position, or the date you suffered a major injury. Instead, look back over your medical evidence and write down a date that corresponds with the onset of symptoms. This will support your claim that your disability is an ongoing problem that has impacted your ability to work.

If Your Application Is Denied

Unfortunately, despite your best efforts, you may still be denied after the initial application. If this occurs, do not take on the lengthy and often confusing appeals process and instead, hire an attorney to help you strengthen your case.

The process of completing an application to receive Social Security Disability benefits can last several days or weeks. However, if you are denied, don't hesitate to contact the professionals at Provizer & Phillips.