How to Apply for SSDI: Essential Guide to Form SSA-16 and Application Tips

How to Apply for SSDI: There are a few ways to apply for Social Security disability benefits. You can do it online, over the phone at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778), or in person at a Social Security office using Form SSA-16. Making an appointment isn’t necessary, but it might cut down on the time you have to wait.

To speed up the process, gather important documents like medical records, work history, and photo ID before you start the application process. Get ready to talk about your health, past jobs, and personal life. This preparation will help make the application process go more smoothly.

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A birth certificate or other proof of birth, as well as documentation proving your U.S. citizenship or legal residency if you were not born in the country, may be required to prove your eligibility. Those who served in the military prior to 1968 might be required to present their discharge documents.

Records of taxes, such as W-2 forms or last year’s self-employment tax returns, may also be needed. It might also be required to verify your health conditions using medical records, test results, and doctor’s notes that you currently possess.

Other records pertaining to previous benefits, such as pay stubs or settlement agreements attesting to workers’ compensation or comparable benefits received, may also be required.

How to Apply for SSDI: What if you miss certain documents?

If you’re missing any documents that are needed, don’t wait to apply; Social Security staff can help you get them. Some copies, like W-2 forms, are okay, but for most things, like birth certificates, you’ll need the originals, which will be returned to you after they are looked over.

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To apply, you’ll need to give important details like your full name, date of birth, place of birth, Social Security number, and any other names you’ve used. These details help make sure you are eligible and speed up the application process.

Additionally, you might be required to provide proof of citizenship and reveal whether you or another person has previously applied for Medicare, Social Security, or Supplemental Security Income on your behalf. You must include information about your dates of service if you served in the US military prior to 1968. Additionally required are employment details for the previous two years, such as income earned and employer names.