How to start a Social Security disability application

Start with the appropriate disability route

Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income are separate programs. Do not choose a form solely because both programs use the word disability. SSA’s application service helps identify the relevant request; its SSI page also has routes for adults and children.

The online adult disability application has its own conditions for use. Read the official screening questions instead of assuming every disability request can be completed through the same screen.

Use the Disability Starter Kit

SSA publishes an Adult Disability Starter Kit and an SSI Child Disability Starter Kit. Each includes a fact sheet, a checklist, and a worksheet. Use the kit that matches the person applying before your interview or online application.

The worksheet is a way to organize the information SSA will request. It does not establish that a medical condition qualifies for benefits. Keep the application questions and any later requests from SSA as the guide for what to provide.

Organize the application work

Use the Adult Disability Checklist to gather the details for an adult application. The online application asks about medical treatment and work as well as personal information. Prepare these groups of information:

• Medical providers: names, contact details and treatment dates; medicines and prescribers; tests, dates and who requested them.
• Work: employers and earnings for this year and last year, plus the job history requested by the application.
• Records: the medical evidence already in your possession and other items on the official checklist. Tell SSA about missing documents and follow its instructions for supplying them.

Get help if online completion is unavailable

SSA’s disability page directs people who cannot complete the online application to call 1-800-772-1213. A representative can arrange an appointment to apply. The TTY number is 1-800-325-0778.

Tell the representative whether the application concerns an adult or child, and whether you are asking about SSDI, SSI, or need help distinguishing the routes. Confirm whether the appointment will be by phone or at an office.

Plan a visit around SSA’s request

If SSA asks you to attend an office, confirm the location and the specific evidence to bring. Finding an office does not start an application or reserve an interview. Keep any application receipt and follow-up instructions together.