How to Finish an SSDI Application

SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance, provides monthly support payments to some people who cannot work due to serious medical conditions or disabilities. You must complete a lengthy application process in order to request SSDI benefits. Some applicants retain an attorney to assist them with their applications but this is not necessary. You can finish your SSDI application on your own if you prefer not to hire an attorney.

Instructions

• 1

  Answer all questions on the application. If you don't understand one of the questions, ask for help at your local Social Security Administration office (see Resource section to find your local office).

• 2

  Provide very specific answers. For instance, don't just say that you can't work because you're depressed. Say that you have been diagnosed with "major depression, recurrent, severe." Don't say, "I'm too depressed to go to work." Say, "I frequently start to cry at work in front of customers and some days I miss work because I am simply too depressed to get out of bed or take a shower."

• 3

  Add extra paper if you need more room to give your answers, if you apply with a paper application. You can apply online if you prefer. In that case, you can submit additional information by mail if you need to do so.

• 4

  Provide names, addresses and phone numbers for all health care providers that have ever treated you for your disabling condition, even if it was many years ago.

• 5

  Attach copies of any medical records or other documents you have that support your disability claim to your application before submitting it.