How to Qualify for Social Security With a Mental Disability

People with a verifiable mental disability that prevents them from working may qualify for Social Security benefits. To be eligible, persons must have been employed and paid Social Security taxes in the past. Their mental disability also must be expected to continue for at least a year. Here is an overview of the qualification process.

Instructions

• 1

  Prepare to apply. You should keep a diary detailing how your mental problems impact your ability to work. Instruct your doctor to prepare copies of medical records and a supporting letter that will be submitted as part of your Social Security disability application. Ask employers and relatives to write letters with their observations of your mental condition. Compile a history of counseling, hospitalizations and medications to illustrate your condition's severity. Gather your Social Security card, birth certificate, information about your residence, past payroll records and a checkbook.

• 2

  Call or visit your nearest Social Security Administration office to obtain a disability application. This application is also available online at the Social Security website. See the Resources section below for a link.

• 3

  Fill out the disability application completely and submit it to Social Security.

• 4

  Attend all interviews, evaluations and other meetings scheduled by Social Security personnel. The information gathered during these sessions is essential in assessing your mental disability. It is also important to respond promptly to all phone calls and letters from the Social Security Administration.

• 5

  Be persistent and don't give up. If your mental disability application is turned down, consider hiring a lawyer specializing in disability cases to handle an appeal.