I’d Like to File for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Where Do I Start?

Published by Scott D. Lewis

Social Security Disability Attorney in Indiapolis, IN

If you’re unable to work due to physical or mental health impairments, the first question that will come to mind is do I qualify for disability benefits?

And where do I begin with the process of filing for Social Security Disability?

First off, there are two programs when it comes to your Social Security Disability claim.

SSDI – Social Security Disability Insurance
SSI – Supplemental Security Income

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is based on work credits. You may qualify for the SSDI program if you have a work history and have paid into this system, while SSI is a needs-based program.

How to File for Disability Benefits?

Regardless of the program, you will start the disability process with an initial application.

There are two ways you can start an SSDI application. The first way is to visit the Social Security Administration’s website: www.SSA.gov, and complete the application form.

You will answer questions about your medical conditions, your medical providers, and provide your past work history. If you cannot complete this application online, you can contact your local Social Security office and make an appointment for an interview by phone.

For the SSI program, initial applications are conducted by telephone only.

Whether online or by phone, your application and corresponding information will be submitted to the Disability Determination Bureau (DDB), the organization that works with Social Security to gather your medical records for review.

It is very likely SSA will send you additional questionnaires asking about your daily activities, and they might ask you to go in for a consultative examination with one of their doctors.

Social Security gathers all the information that you have provided and will evaluate your case to determine what they think your restrictions are. Once they evaluate your claim and decide on your case, they will mail out a “Decision Letter” with their findings.

What if My Initial Application for Social Security Disability is Denied?

What if that decision is a denial?

Unfortunately, many of the initial applications for Social Security Disability are denied, but don’t be discouraged. Rather than starting over, you can appeal this decision.

This appeal (the second step in the process), is called a “Request for Reconsideration.”

It is important to note that you only have 60 days from the date of your denial to file the appeal. When you file the Request for Reconsideration, however, you will have the chance to add any new or updated medical information, such as a new diagnosis, any worsening of your current condition, or further physical limitations.

Like the initial application, once a request for reconsideration is submitted, allow for about four to six months to process this appeal.

At which point, you will receive another written notice with a second decision. The Social Security office will once again send you an official letter with a decision that they have approved or denied your appeal.

If the appeal is denied, you can appeal the decision within 60 days. At this point, the second appeal is a Request for Hearing.

A disability hearing is where you, and your representative, have the chance to present your case in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). At this stage in the process, it can be very beneficial to have a disability attorney represent you.

I’ve Requested a Disability Hearing. What Happens Next?

Once we submit a request for a hearing, we are waiting on the Social Security Administration (SSA) to schedule the hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). In the meantime, we work with you to request and gather your medical records and prepare a comprehensive legal brief to submit to the court in support of your claim.

We will then prepare you for the hearing. Having an attorney for this step in the disability process can be very important and may benefit your case. We will guide you before, during, and after your disability hearing.

Social Security Disability hearings are informal, lasting about 45 minutes to an hour. We will strive to prepare you, so you understand what to expect at a disability hearing. From the time you enter the courtroom until you leave, we’ll be there every step of the way. While we likely won’t get a decision on the day of the hearing, we will instruct you on what happens next. Once the hearing is complete, there is another waiting period while the judge makes their final decision regarding your disability claim.

If you have any questions about the disability process, or about how Lewis Disability Law can help with your disability claim, please click HERE or call us at (866) 950-5116.

Do I Have a Good Social Security Disability Case?

I hear this question probably more than any other question from my clients. When I was in law school, one of my professors told me, “The facts always matter,” and a Social Security disability case is no exception.

Why and When Should I Hire a Disability Attorney?

When do you need a disability attorney to handle your case? And why?