How to Get Help Applying for Disability

A severe injury can limit your ability to practice the career you've invested a lifetime into. In some cases it might even prohibit you from ever plying your trade again. That's why Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) was created. With the proper forms and approval, the government will lend a helping hand in your time of need. But it can be difficult proving your injury to the government, and you may be turned down on your first, or even second attempt. Luckily there's help available for anyone having trouble qualifying for Disability insurance.

Things You'll Need

• SSDI Application Forms
• W-2 Forms
• Social Security Card
• Birth Certificate
• Detailed Records of Medical Visits
• Bank Statements
• Employment History

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Instructions

Talk to a Specialist

• 1

  Before beginning any paperwork, you'll want to speak to your general practitioner about your infirmity. SSDI should be your last resort. Your doctor will tell you if he/she thinks your injury is severe enough to warrant Disability.

• 2

  Ask your general practitioner to give you a referral to a specialist in your injury. If you have medical insurance, they might provide you with a list of approved doctors.

• 3

  If the specialist agrees that your injury is severe, you can obtain a statement and assessment of your injury. Make sure the statement is detailed, including a medical analysis of the injury and a prognosis for long term effects and/or treatments. This statement will be invaluable later.

Get a Lawyer

• 4

  www.SocialSecurity.gov hosts all the necessary forms to file your Disability claim electronically. However, most experts agree that it is best to get legal representation from the offset. If you are worried about the cost, some lawyers will defer payment until you win your claim.

• 5

  Contact a lawyer specializing in Disability claims. This will not be free, but will greatly improve your chances of successfully claiming your disability.

• 6

  Bring your lawyer all the pertinent information: medical history, statements from your physician, proof of legal status, employment history and income tax forms. If you have dependent children then you will also need Social Security cards and birth certificates for them. Your lawyer may ask for more. All of this will be used to file on your behalf.

• 7

  Make sure all of your financial information, legal status and medical records are correct. Mistakes can happen and are costly.

• 8

  Once your claim has been filed you will have to wait to hear from the Social Security office. If you are accepted then you will be informed by your lawyer and receive a letter in the mail.

If You Are Denied

• 9

  If your claim is denied then you will need to appeal the decision. You have up to 60 days to file an appeal. Your lawyer will handle this for you.

• 10

  During the appeal process it may be a good idea to get another medical opinion or two. The more medical support you have backing your case, the better your chances are.

• 11

  Double check and make sure that all the forms that were submitted had correct financial information. Claims can be turned down if there are discrepancies in finances.