Applying for SSDI

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Table Of Contents

Step 1: The Initial SSDI Application
Step 2: Reconsideration
Step 3: The Hearing
The Appeals Process
Getting Qualified Help Improves Your SSDI Application Dramatically
More Important Information about The Application Process
Other Applying For SSDI FAQs:
Learn More About Applying for SSDI In Your State:

Individuals with mental and/or physical conditions (impairments) that prevent them from sustaining work may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.

This social security disability benefit (SSDI) can prove invaluable for those who are unable to sustain full-time work because of their medical conditions; however, the SSDI application process is often long, complicated and difficult.

Disability advocacy groups such as Citizens Disability can help disabled individuals navigate the system, apply for SSDI and receive the benefits they deserve. Learning more about each stage of the application process makes it easier for applicants to present a strong, effective case.

Applying for SSDI with Citizens Disability on your side will help your chances.

Step 1: The Initial SSDI Application

Applying for SSDI starts by filing an Initial SSDI Application. To do this you will need to provide your conditions, your symptoms, your limitations, your medical history since you became sick, and your work history for the past 15 years. Gathering this information prior to starting the SSDI application process makes things go more smoothly. Remember, in order to be eligible for disability benefits like SSDI & SSI you need to prove that you cannot sustain a job – which means consistently working an 8 hour day, 5 days per week.

Learn More About the Initial Application

Step 2: Reconsideration

Applicants have the right to appeal their case if their initial disability benefits claim for SSDI or SSI is denied. This is called a Request for Reconsideration. This appeal must be submitted to the Social Security Administration within 60 days of the date of the denial. In most states, appealing the initial denial results in the SSA reconsidering the earlier denial. If the reconsideration is denied, applicants can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).

Learn more about the Reconsideration Stage

Step 3: The Hearing

Hearings before an ALJ can be intimidating without the help of an advocate. Having an experienced social security disability benefits advocate can greatly improve your chances of having your disability benefits claim for SSDI or SSI approved. Advocates will collect and submit medical records on your behalf, write a comprehensive pre-hearing memorandum outlining your conditions and limitations, and make arguments as to why you should be approved for disability benefits based on the SSA’s rules and regulations.

Learn more about the Hearing Stage

The Appeals Process

If your social security disability benefits claim is denied after the ALJ hearing, you have the right to appeal to the Social Security Administration’s Appeals Council. While each request for review is considered, only 20% of disability benefit requests are granted.

If the Appeals Council chooses not to grant the request for a review, or if the results of the review are unfavorable, you can file a civil action in Federal District Court. You may also be able to submit a new application.

Learn more about the Appeals Process

Getting Qualified Help Improves Your SSDI Application Dramatically

It’s clear that the SSDI application process isn’t always easy; however, applicants don’t need to handle their disability benefits case on their own. To get started before applying for SSDI, first take our short quiz to see if you might qualify for SSDI, or call us directly at 1-781-926-3489 for more information on the application process and eligibility requirements.

More Important Information about The Application Process

Other Applying For SSDI FAQs:

Learn More About Applying for SSDI In Your State:

About the Author

Citizens Disability

Since 2010, Citizens Disability has been America’s premier Social Security Disability advocate. Our mission is to give a voice to the millions of Americans who are disabled and unable to work, helping them receive the Social Security Disability benefits to which they may be entitled. We have helped tens of thousands of individuals with their SSDI claims. Your success is our mission.