What Forms Are Needed for Social Security Disability?

A mental or physical disability can interfere with a person's ability to maintain gainful employment. According to Brent and Associates personal injury lawyers online, the Social Security Administration (SSA) spends $8 billion annually in disability payments. If a physical or mental impairment prevents an individual from functioning normally, an application for disability can provide welcome relief. The SSA has streamlined the disability application process considerably, and applicants will find most necessary forms online.

Online Application

• The SSA online application asks basic demographic information about age, social security number and onset of disability that either prevented or interfered with a person's ability to work. Disability as defined by Social Security means an individual can no longer complete work tasks and the disability has lasted a year or could result in death. The application takes 10 to 30 minutes to complete and individuals have the option of completing the application by phone.

Disability Report

• As the most important form in the application process, the disability report describes in detail the nature of a person's disability and actual medical diagnosis. The report extensively documents employment history (i.e., previous jobs and work-related duties). The disability report examines the duration of symptoms related to the disability and how the disability impaired normal, daily activities and affected the person's ability to maintain stable employment. The information listed on the report must be thorough and accurately reflect a disruption in employment and daily living. Release of information forms accompany the report and must be sent directly to doctors and other clinicians familiar with the illness. Once all documents have been completed, the local social security office submits the application in its entirety to the Disability Determining Services (DDS) for a decision.

Other Necessary Documents

• Located in downloadable format on the SSA site, the disability starter kits include facts sheets on the disability application process and worksheets (i.e., disability interview checklist and medical worksheet) to help compile the needed documents for the disability interview. The starter kit provides an overview of Social Security's definition of disability and provides links to the online application and disability report. Examples of documents individuals will need to compile for the disability worksheet checklist include birth certificate, naturalization papers, W-2 or self-employment returns.