Disability Application Checklist: 8 Things You’ll Need When You Apply

If you’re unable to work due to a long-term disability, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). But before you begin receiving benefits, you must apply through the Social Security Administration (SSA). And the SSA requires quite a lot of information. Below is a disability application checklist with the most important documents you’ll most likely need.

Disability Application Checklist: 8 Vital Documents You’ll Need

#1: Your Birth Certificate and Social Security Number

Before you can begin receiving benefits, the SSA needs to verify your identity. These two documents certify that you are either an American or a legal alien. You can submit a copy of your birth certificate, as long as it is certified by the issuing agency.

#2: Your Employment Information

The SSA wants information on where you have worked in the past 15 years. Be sure to include copies of your latest W2 or tax forms. This disability report form is also required. It details your job title, dates of employment, salary, and job responsibilities. Before issuing benefits the SSA wants to determine if you can continue doing your job. If you can’t, they’ll attempt to find you another similar job before awarding you benefits.

#3: Contact Information for Your Healthcare Provider(s)

On your application, include the names, addresses and phone numbers of your doctors treating you, hospitals, and clinics. The Disability Determination Services (DDS) are responsible for determining whether or not you’re eligible for benefits. They’ll use this information to gather your medical records.

#4: Your Medical Records and Medication List

Medical records are extremely useful to the DDS. They include x-rays, MRIs, blood tests and more. The DDS use your medical records as evidence that you are undergoing treatment for your disability. Include the phone number and address of the facility where the tests were performed. Your medications are also useful information to the DDS. Include the medications you’re currently on, medications you’ve taken in the past, and the reasons for discontinuing any medications.

#5: Your Spouse’s Information (If Applicable)

Even if you’re not currently married, you’ll need to gather a few documents for the SSA. They’ll want to see your marriage certificate, spouse’s full name, and Social Security number. In addition, any divorce decrees are also applicable. The SSA uses this information to see if your spouse is eligible for benefits on your work record.

#6: Your Dependent Information (If Applicable)

Similar to your spouse record, the SSA wants to see if your dependents are eligible for benefits on your record. Include your dependents (if under the age of 19), their Social Security numbers, and dates of birth.

#7: Your Banking Information

This information allows the SSA to see if you meet the program requirements. But they also use this information to pay you. Nowadays, disability payments made by the SSA are paid via direct deposit. So if they approve your claim, they’ll need your bank’s routing and account numbers. In addition, they might ask for other financial information like recent pay stubs and bank statements.

#8: Copies of any U.S. Military Service Papers (If Applicable)

While this does not apply to everyone if you served in the military before 1968, your military service papers are required. You may actually qualify for extra earnings. This document can be a DD-214 — Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty.

Missing Documents from The Disability Application Checklist?

If you don’t have all the documents listed above in the disability application checklist, there is no need to delay your application! Submit the documents you do have. Usually, you can provide any missing documents later. In fact, the SSA can even help you obtain them if you don’t have them already.

Also, if you don’t have any recent, or enough work history — you should still apply. You may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The application forms and medical requirements are exactly the same.

Get Free Legal Assistance for Issues Not Covered On Our Disability Application Checklist

If you need help submitting the documents listed on this disability application checklist, consider speaking to an experienced disability attorney or advocate. These experts are trained to help you win your much-needed benefits and can guide you through the process.

Ready to see if you may qualify? Click here to start your free disability benefits evaluation now.