How to Declare Disability

Workers who have a medical condition that interferes with their ability to work may qualify for federal and state benefits. Declaring and being approved for disability allows you to receive benefits, including social security payments, to make up for your lost wages. You must pass a screening and qualify based on your work history and past social security payments, although children, widows and widowers, the blind and veterans may qualify without their own work history. The guidelines for applying for state benefits will vary by your state of residence.

Instructions

• 1

  Meet the Social Security Administration's criteria for disability. You must not currently be working or earning more than $1,000 a month, and your condition must be "severe" enough to prevent you from doing regular work activities. Your condition must either be on the Social Security Administration's list of disabling conditions or be as severe as the listed conditions, and prevent you from doing your previous line of work. You must also be unable to transition to another type of work.

• 2

  Apply for benefits. You may apply immediately once you become disabled. Applications are available online, or you can call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office. You will need your social security number, ID or verification of your age, your medical records, employment and tax history, and information about any spouse or child who is also applying for benefits. The Social Security Administration's "Disability Starter Kits" include all the information and a helpful checklist.

• 3

  Complete an Adult Disability Report Form in addition to your application for benefits.

• 4

  Apply for your state's benefits, if applicable. The disability.gov website's benefits section can link you to your state's disability benefit information.