Every day, people use checklists or to-lists to keep them on track. If you plan to apply for disability benefits, you need to know about the Adult Disability Benefits checklists used by the Social Security Administration (“Social Security”).
First, let’s look at Social Security’s disability benefit programs:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides benefits to people who cannot work because of a disability. In addition to a disabling condition, you must also have earned enough work credits to qualify for benefits.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are paid to specific groups of people, including people with disabilities. Although Social Security does not consider work credits, it does require that applicants meet certain income and resource limits.
Whether applying for SSDI or SSI, the following checklists could make your attempt to get benefits a little less complicated.
Checklist for Online Adult Disability Application
Although you can file a paper application, you can also apply online. After creating a Social Security account, you will have to answer questions. Having the following information at your fingertips may speed up the process:
- Your date and place of birth.
- Information about your current spouse and any prior spouses.
- Names and birthdates for minor or disabled children.
- Details about your U.S. military service if you served.
- Information about your employment currently and for the previous two years.
- If self-employed, you will need information from your Social Security Statement, business type, and total net income.
- Banking information if you want direct deposit.
- Someone that Social Security can call if they cannot reach you.
- Information about your medical condition, healthcare providers, and medical records.
- Your job history and when your medical condition affected your ability to work
- Your education and training.
Having this information before you start your application may help minimize your frustration. A disability lawyer can help even more.
Checklist – Adult Disability Interview
At some point after you apply, Social Security will schedule an interview. Either in person or by phone, one of their staff members will ask questions about your application for benefits. Your interview may run more smoothly if you have most of the following information with you:
- Any copies of medical records that you already have in your possession.
- Information about any workers’ compensation claims you have made.
- Names and birthdates for your spouse and minor children.
- Direct deposit banking information.
- An alternate contact person.
- Form SSA-827 (Authorization to Disclose Information) (if Social Security sent one to you).
- Medical and Job Worksheet – Adult (if you were not able to apply online).
With a little work ahead of time, you may find that your application and interview are much easier to handle.
We Can Help with Your Adult Disability Benefits Checklists
Even though these checklists help, the application process is complicated. The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have helped many clients receive the disability benefits they deserve. For a free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100. Though our office is located in Anaheim, we assist clients throughout Southern California.
