SERVICES
Applying for disability benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), can feel like a maze that twists and turns but never ends. Worse yet, it's a bureaucratic maze, designed to leave you feeling lost and frustrated in a sea of red tape and long wait times. But safe passage is possible, and Everyman Legal is here to guide you through each of the phases outlined below:
PrEPARE
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Begin with a free initial consultation. This step helps the applicant understand the requirements and prepare for the intake process.
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Obtain the Adult Disability Checklist. This checklist is a comprehensive guide that details all the documents and information required for the SSDI application. It includes sections on medical records, employment history, and personal identification. By following this checklist, applicants can better support their claim using evidence that is both logically and legally relevant.
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NOTE: Eligibility for SSDI hinges on age, disability, and work history. The SSA relies heavily on the applicant's medical records and work history to determine eligibility.
apply
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The application can be submitted online, by phone, or in person. Each method has its own procedural nuances.
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The Social Security Administration (SSA) then reviews the application to ensure it meets the basic eligibility criteria for disability benefits.
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The SSA will verify that the applicant has worked long enough to qualify for benefits. This is a fundamental component of eligibility.
Current Work: The SSA evaluates the applicant’s current work activities to assess whether they are still able to engage in substantial gainful activity.
AppRoval/appeal
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State Disability Determination Services (DDS):
The case is forwarded to the DDS in the applicant’s state. The DDS makes the disability determination decision, based on the provided medical and work history.
Field Office Decision:
After the DDS decision, the SSA field office will either approve or deny the claim and issue a decision letter accordingly.
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If approved, there is a mandatory five-month waiting period before benefits commence. This is a significant delay in receiving aid.
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Should the application be denied, the applicant has the option to appeal the decision. This process involves further review of the case materials as well as the possibility of additional documentation.
