For answers to frequently asked questions about how the SSA determines the answers to questions four and five, see: Work and Education Information the SSA Needs
The SSDI Application Process
If after answering the five questions you feel you would qualify for disability benefits, it's time to file your application. The SSA provides a Disability Starter Kit to help you. The kit includes a fact sheet of basic information, a checklist of the information and documents you'll need to gather, a worksheet to help you prepare for your disability interview, and a link to an online application. If you prefer not to apply online, you can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to request an application or visit your local SSA office. If you have any problems filling out your application, you can request help from your local SSA office.
SSDI benefits will not be paid until you have been disabled for at least five continuous months. After being disabled for two years, you will qualify for Medicare. But don't put off applying because the longer you wait, the longer it will be until you can start receiving benefits. As soon as you know you won't be able to work for at least a year, file your application.
Here are some tips to remember when applying for SSDI:
• There are only two things you have to prove: 1) that you are unable to do any substantial work due to your medical condition; and 2) that your condition must be expected to last at least one year or be terminal.
• When filling out forms or answering questions during your disability interview, be honest, but only answer the questions you're asked. Don't give additional information. It may be tempting to stress what a hard worker you were, what a good education you've had, or how successful you've been. Resist that temptation. Remember, they're going to be looking for any kind of work you may be able to do. Volunteering unasked for information will only give more potential options for denying your claim. It might be good to apply part of the Miranda Rights statement here, “Anything you say can and will be used against you...” (Note: I'm not suggesting you try to cheat the system. If you're able to do some kind of work, then you should do so. I'm just saying not to make things harder on yourself by creating more things you have to prove you can't do.)
