This blog recently discussed the appeals process for disability benefits. It is also helpful for disabled individuals to understand the process for applying for disability benefits and what is required when they apply. In general, individuals who are unable to work because of a medical condition may be able to receive Social Security disability (SSD) benefits. These benefits can be helpful to disabled individuals in a number of ways.
To apply for SSD benefits, the applicant will need to provide some basic personal information. In addition, it is important to provide thorough medical records. As such, the applicant will be required to provide names of doctors and medical facilities they have received care from. The applicant will also be required to provide identifying information for the doctors and medical facilities they have received care from such as addresses and phone numbers. It is also important to provide any medical records the applicant has from medical care providers. In addition, applicants will need to provide lab and test results and a list of medications and the dosages taken.
Social Security disability benefits are generally available to disabled individuals who are unable to work because of a medical condition that is expected to last a year or longer or result in death. In addition, to receive SSD benefits, applicants must also meet work history requirements (different disability benefits may be available through the Social Security Administration [SSA] to individuals who do not have sufficient work history). Because of the work history requirement for SSD benefits, applicants are also required to provide a summary of the type of work they performed in the past, where they worked and most recent W-2 form.
Lastly, applicants may be required to complete addition forms and to allow the SSA to obtain their medical records from their care providers. The application process can seem complex but knowing what to provide, and being as thorough as possible, can help disabled individuals received the benefits they have worked for and need.
