How to File for Social Security Disability in Illinois

In Illinois, you can apply for Social Security disability benefits through one of three methods: online, in person or by mail. Applicants applying in person can apply at the local Social Security Administration Office of Disability Adjudication and Review that serves the area where they live.

Things You'll Need

• List of physicians and contact information for each
• Medical records
• Disability claim forms

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Instructions

• 1

  Consult your physician prior to filing a disability claim.

  Discuss with your doctor your health issues to determine if the issues are disabling. You will need a specific diagnosis to authenticate your claim, so be sure to have the doctor give you a written diagnosis. When you decide to proceed with a disability claim, alert your physician, as the SSA will request your medical records.

• 2

  Seek professional advice before filing a disability claim.

  Contact the SSA office to request forms and information for filing your claim. Review the forms before completing them and seek professional advice for clarity and understanding. You may want to consult a lawyer, social worker or any professional, who is familiar with Social Security disability claims.

• 3

  Proofread your application for accuracy before signing and submitting.

  Complete and proofread the application for accuracy. When you are satisfied with your application, submit the application to the SSA and wait for a medical examiner to contact you. Depending on your medical condition, the examiner may request additional medical examinations.

• 4

  Write the names, telephone numbers and address of all of your doctors.

  Create a list of your medical providers as you wait to hear from a medical examiner by listing the name, address and telephone numbers of all of the doctors who have treated you, especially those treatments related to your medical issue. Be prepared to provide a list to the SSA, if required. You will also need to determine, which of your current doctors will be your primary physician for SSA purposes.

• 5

  Explain in detail your functioning and limitations when you speak with the medical examiner. Be detailed when describing the job requirements as you discuss your work history. The medical examiner must consider your work ability in terms of recent and past job responsibilities. Before a disability determination is made, the examiner must also determine if you meet the criteria for training for a new career.

• 6

  Always store important documents in a safe place.

  File a copy of all of your paperwork related to your Social Security disability claim in a waterproof and fireproof location or safe, such as a safe deposit box.