Keys to Applying for Disability

Applying for disability benefits can be complex and confusing, but it is necessary if you have a permanent or long-term disability. There are two federal programs, the Social Security Disability Insurance program and the Supplemental Security Income program, that both provide assistance to people with disabilities. You can apply online or at the Social Security Administration (SSA); they then ultimately decide if you are eligible for benefits. The process can be very tedious and time-consuming, especially if you have to file any appeals.

Medical Records

• Before applying for disability benefits, check that you have had adequate and necessary medical treatments for your disability. When you initially apply for your benefits, SSA asks for a very detailed medical background. The agency also requests all of your related medical records so they can accurately rule on your case. The more records you have, the easier the process goes. The records also help if your medical provider has kept good paperwork detailing how your condition prevents you from working.

Five-step Process

• SSA uses a five-step process to determine if you qualify for disability benefits. If you are working and earning more than $1,000 per month, you do not qualify for disability benefits. Your condition must be considered "severe" and interfere with basic work-related functions. SSA maintains a list of medical conditions that warrants an approval of disability. If your condition is not on the list, then SSA uses the fourth and fifth step to determine if you are disabled.

Fourth and Fifth Step

• Disability, according to SSA, is based on your inability to work. The fourth and fifth step investigate whether your disability prevents you from working. In order to be disabled, you no longer can do the type of work you used to do before your disability occurred or became worse. Social Security also must deem that your condition prevents you from adjusting to or learning a new type of work. The disability must be expected to last at least one year.

Types of Disability

• Although mental illness is the number one reason people are disabled in the United States according to the World Health Organization, it can be more difficult to be approved for disability benefits with only a mental illness. SSA also states that they do not grant disability based on substance dependence or abuse unless they are present with other conditions, such as depression or a medical condition. To help with the disability application process, save paperwork and develop a good relationship with your medical provider's office.

Appeal Process

• Often times, people are rejected when they first apply for disability benefits. This is relatively standard in some states. Applicants can appeal the decision and another team at the state level reconsiders the application. If the second review is still a rejection, applicants can appeal again. This time, they receive a hearing in front of an administrative law judge. There are lawyers that specialize in social security law that can be helpful, but they are not required to represent you.