What Documents Do I Need to File for Disability?

The U.S. Social Security Administration provides financial assistance to American citizens with disabilities. The benefits are only available to those individuals that have a recognized disability and meet specific medical criteria as outlined by the administration. Applying for disability benefits requires five different forms, along with an application.

Birth Certificate

• A birth certificate or proof of birth from your state of birth is a required document when filing for Social Security benefits. The document must be an original. Social Security Administration does not accept a copy of the birth certificate. The state registrar's office supplies the birth certificate with the appropriate seal.

Proof of Citizenship

• U.S. citizens that were not born in the United States but became citizens must provide Naturalization papers. These documents are received from the Immigration Department when you have completed your citizenship requirements and taken your oath.

Discharge Papers

• A person that has served in the U.S. military must supply a copy of their discharge papers. The discharge papers are called a DD-214 and lists the dates you served in the military, any awards, ranks achieved and kind of discharge you received. The Defense Department provides this document.

Tax Forms

• Filing for disability benefits also requires a copy of your W-2 or 1099 form if you were self-employed. The form determines your past and current income in order to determine how much disability you will receive, if approved by the Social Security Administration.

Disability Forms

• The Social Security Administration provides two different forms that are required. The SSA-3368 describes your medical condition and the SSA-827 is a medical release form required so the administration can get copies of your medical records from your doctor.

Disability Application

• A disability application is another document required when applying for disability benefits. The application requires you to list your name and social security number as well as checking and savings account number and routing number. The application requests the jobs you have worked in the last five years, any workers compensation claims you have filed, medications you are taking or have taken, medical tests and dates of those tests, a list of all doctors you have seen or treatment you have received and anyone who can attest to your medical condition.