What do you need to apply for Social Security Disability?

If a physical or mental disability limits your ability to work, you may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. To receive benefits, you must have a condition that has lasted for a minimum of 12 months or is likely to result in your passing.

Completing an application for SSD benefits is easier said than done, especially when you are sick or injured. Fortunately, you can speed up the process by collecting all the necessary information upfront. Here’s what you need to complete your application:

• Dates of any marriages or divorces
• Name of your spouse and children under the age of 18
• Birth dates of your spouse and children under the age of 18
• Any military service information
• Federal income tax statements from the previous year
• Bank account information

Your disability report calls for additional information, such as:

• Contact information of a reference who can discuss your current condition
• All information associated with treatment for your condition
• List of any medications you’re taking
• Dates of all medical tests and referring physicians
• Information on any workers’ compensation claims

If you don’t include all the necessary information, it’s likely that you’ll receive a denial letter. However, this isn’t the end of the road, as you have the ability to appeal an SSD denial up to four times.

If you continue to run into one problem after the next, take a step back to better understand the process and your legal rights. This will help you formulate a plan that allows you to provide the information necessary to receive benefits in the near future.