APPLYING FOR DISABILITY (SSDI)

There are 4 ways to apply for Social Security disability benefits:
  1. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (Monday is the worst day to call).
  2. Visit a local Social Security office (appointment recommended).
  3. Apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov, then click the "Disability" tab.
  4. Find a disability advocate or representative who will file for you.
Which is the best way to file?  It depends on the individual.  The advantage to having a professional advocate file for you is that he/she will be familiar with the system, the forms, and the type of evidence required.  It seems a small consideration, however, knowing the buzz words and lingo of Social Security can sometimes make a difference.

Here are some of the forms that Social Security will typically require as part of your application for adult disability benefits:
  • Application for Benefits
  • Adult Disability Report
  • Function Report
  • Work History Report
In a recent application that I filed, I counted 32 pages of forms that we filled out.  That does not count any medical evidence we submitted nor does it count further questionnaires that may be required.  It does not include any letters, memos or briefs that our advocate will submit on behalf of the claimant.

Representatives are not allowed to charge a fee for completing a Social Security disability application, or other forms.  We may only charge a fee when the case is won, back pay has been awarded, and our fee agreement has been approved by Social Security.  We cannot charge for paperwork. 

In a future post, I will write about the nature of and purpose of some Social Security forms and questionnaires.  Knowing how Social Security will use the information on these forms may help you complete them more effectively.


THE FORSYTHE FIRM

 
(256) 799-0297 for our Huntsville, AL office
(615) 732-6159 for our Nashville, Tn office

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