Social Security is a government program that provides benefits to certain citizens, including those with disabilities. These benefits are mainly provided in the form of insurance. They help replace some of the lost income of eligible citizens. With the help of this program, eligible beneficiaries can reduce their financial burden and even access essential care. That said, to make the most of the program, one should know a few details regarding the benefits and application.
Eligibility and benefits
To determine one’s eligibility for disability benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) sets an earning limit called substantial gainful activity or SGA each year. So, those applying for disability benefits must be unable to earn an income above the set SGA limit. At the moment, the SGA is $1,550 a month.
People with disabilities can receive benefits under two programs—Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
- SSDI is meant for those who develop a disability but have paid Social Security taxes on their earnings or the earnings of a parent or a spouse. Dependents of those with disabilities are also eligible for the benefits based on their accrued earnings.
- SSI offers cash payments to low-income individuals as well as seniors and children who have developed a disability and meet the SSA’s disability criteria.
When applying for Social Security disability benefits, one does not have to fill out separate applications for SSDI and SSI. There is only one link through which one can apply for disability benefits. Once the application is processed—either online or in person—SSA will verify the details and decide whether the applicant is eligible to receive benefits under SSDI, SSI, or both.
Step-by-step application procedure
One must apply for SSDI benefits as soon as they develop a disability, as the decision regarding eligibility can take 3 to 6 months. But before applying for benefits, one can call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to check if they are eligible for the program. Once that is done, one can determine the mode of application—online, phone, or in-person (by visiting the nearest Social Security office) application. If unsure, one can always seek the assistance of a Social Security Representative, who, over the phone, will help one understand the application checklist and the overall process.
1. Download and review the starter kit
Begin by visiting the SSA website and downloading the Adult Disability Starter Kit—a checklist for the application process. One can use the checklist as a reference, read the document carefully, and arrange all the required evidentiary documents—mainly ID proof, wellness records, and employment records.
Key documents for SSD application
- Proof of birth/birth certificate
- Proof of citizenship status
- Proof of military service, if any
- W-2 forms for the previous year (if applicable)
- Self-employment tax returns for the previous year (if applicable)
- Pay stubs, settlement agreements, or other proofs of any temporary disability benefits received (if any)
- Wellness records
Once all the documents are ready, applicants can decide whether to apply online, visit the local Social Security office, or call the SSA.
2. Fill in the application
If applying online at home, one must be prepared to spend about an hour on the process. One should also ensure they have a stable internet connection. Then, one can click on the “Apply” link and begin. The application is divided into three categories—personal information, wellness data, and job-related details.
3. Fill in relevant personal information
Enter name, age, Social Security Number, name and age of current and former spouses, details regarding marital status, and information about licensed professionals who can confirm the applicant’s overall condition. Here, one must also add details regarding other disability benefits received, claims made in the past, and compensation received. One must also upload all evidentiary information as required. This would include records that describe the wellness status and condition of the applicant and details regarding licensed professionals who provided care.
4. Enter employment details
Each applicant must list all the jobs they have had for the last 15 years, including self-employment ventures and overseas assignments, with the start and end date of each option and the average number of days worked. In this section, one must also add education-related information, including institution details and names and proofs of degrees and diplomas.
5. Proofread
Once all the information has been entered, one must review the form for spelling mistakes and other possible errors. One must also check and upload the right documents. Finally, one can click on “Submit” to complete the process.
Next steps
Following the Social Security disability benefits application, the SSA will begin reviewing the applicant’s details to check eligibility and forward the application to Disability Determination Services (DDS). Sometimes, the applicant may be asked to undergo an exam conducted by the DDS. The DDS will then notify the applicant of their decision. If considered eligible, the applicant will receive a letter with information about the benefits and the receipt timeline. If rejected, the applicant can opt for a review. If they clear the review, they will receive retroactive benefits. Till they learn about their eligibility, applicants can check their application status online by signing into their account on the official SSA site.