What is the application process if I want to apply for disability or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA)?

You may apply to the SSA for disability or SSI benefits in 1 of 3 ways: in person, over the Internet, or by telephone.

In person: if you want to apply in person, you must first call 1-800-772-1213 to get an appointment. Make sure that you get directions to your local SSA office and that you know what papers to bring with you.  The SSA representative that schedules your appointment can help answer such questions.

By telephone: if you want to apply by telephone, you need to call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule a telephone appointment. The SSA representative will provide you with a date and time. At the appointed time you will receive a telephone call from an SSA representative who will get the information necessary from you to complete an application.  The SSA representative will fill out the application and then send it to you for your review and signature.

Over the Internet: if you want to apply over the Internet, you will need access to a computer and the Internet. You must then visit the website www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability/adult.htm. Be aware, however, that if you are looking to secure SSI benefits, you will only find some of the necessary forms to support your application on the website, e.g., Work History Report and Adult Disability forms, not the application itself.

Although the SSA endeavors to make the application process convenient, it is still confusing for many people.  Consequently, it is a good idea to consult an experienced Florida disability benefits lawyer.

Assuming I go ahead and apply for disability benefits, do you have any general advice about how I should approach the process?

Yes, make sure that you supply all the required information in an objective way. You want the SSA to know that your application is credible and the best way to make sure that it is credible is to describe your disability in an objective and dispassionate fashion.

For example, you will be required to submit a Disability Report in support of your application. Make sure that you accurately describe how your particular disability prohibits you from working without exaggerating your disability. But don’t minimize your disability either.  Because this is often difficult to do when you’re personally involved, consider consulting experienced Florida disability lawyer Walter Carfora.