How to Apply for Benefits

If you think you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits, it’s important to gain a thorough understanding of the application process. When you apply for disability benefits through the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program in Ohio, the Division of Disability Determination (DDD) office makes a decision regarding your claim. DDD denies approximately 70% of disability applications, which is why it is in your best interest to seek the representation of a Social Security disability attorney in Ohio.

 

File for Disability Benefits Online or in Person

The first step is to get in touch with the closest Social Security Administration (SSA) office, either in person or by phone to begin your application. You could file your application on your own or with the aid of an attorney. Another option is to go to the SSA’s website  and click the link that says, “Apply online for disability benefits”. That link will lead you to a web page where you can start the application process. You will need to fill out both the Application for Benefits and the Adult Disability Report Form. Once you’ve completed your online application, contact your local SSA office to ensure that they received your electronic application.

Claims for disability benefits take approximately three to five months to process.  You can help shorten the application process by supplying the following information: 

    • Medical records – Provide the SSA with any medical records in your possession. Medical records should include the names, addresses, phone numbers, and dates of service of the doctors, hospitals, and clinics where you have been treated for your medical condition. You also need to provide a list of any medical tests that you’ve had as well as the names and dosages of any medications you’ve taken.
    • Work history – Provide a summary of your work history that spans the last 15 years so that the SSA can evaluate your case. Your work history should include job titles, names of employers, dates worked, your rate of pay, and the number of hours worked per day. Additionally, provide your most recent W-2 form or a copy of your federal tax return if you’re self-employed.
    • Educational & military service background – Provide the SSA with a complete history of your educational background, which includes the schools you attended, the dates of attendance, and any degrees you earned. If you were in the military, you also need to provide a history of your military service, including original or certified copies of discharge papers for any periods of active duty.

Other personal information that you’ll have to provide when you apply for Social Security disability benefits include your Social Security number, proof of your age, and proof of citizenship or residency documents. Once the SSA receives all of the required information, they will schedule an interview with you, which can be done in person or over the phone.

The documents you provide should be originals or copies that have been certified by the issuing office. You can mail them or bring them to your nearest SSA office. In the course of processing your application, the SSA may schedule a consultative examination (CE) with a doctor who works for the SSA. This typically occurs in cases where there isn’t enough medical evidence or where a claimant hasn’t seen a doctor in a long time.

After you’ve submitted your application and all of the necessary documents, a decision regarding your application will typically be made in 120 days. If the decision is unfavorable to you, you can file an appeal.

 

Get Help Filing Your Social Security Disability Claim

 Don’t deal with the long and complicated Social Security disability application process alone. If you have a question regarding your disability application, contact Jones Law Group. Our seasoned disability attorneys in Ohio can assist you in filling out the required forms, gather the necessary medical evidence, and help you win your claim. Call (614) 545-9998 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation. 


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