Social Security Disability Insurance is a federal scheme operated by the United States government to mitigate lost income through disability.
Some aspects of it can be complicated so if you’re wondering how the program works and how can you apply, we have you covered.
What is SSDI?
SSDI is designed to provide financial assistance to people who are unable to work due to a qualifying disability, with the amount of SSDI benefits a person receives is based on their earnings record and work history.
Once approved, beneficiaries receive monthly payments to help with living expenses and medical costs. The application process for SSDI can be complex, involving medical documentation and assessments of the disability and its impact on the individual’s ability to work.
If an application is denied, there is an appeals process available to seek reconsideration.
What papers must be filled?
In order to apply to the program successfully, pending approval, the following documents will need to be provided:
- Birth certificate or proof of birth
- Proof of US citizenship or a lawful right to be in the country
- US military discharge papers from serviceman who served prior to 1968
- W-2 forms and/or self-employment tax returns for the last year
- Any medical evidence already in possession of the applicant
- Award letters, pay stubs, settlement agreements or proof of any temporary or permanent workers’ compensation benefits received
What are some of the personal details needed?
In order to apply to the program successfully, pending approval, these details and more will need to be provided:
- Social Security number and the date and place of birth
- Name, Social Security number and date of birth/age of a current or former spouse.
- Dates and places of the marriage and any divorce.
- Names and dates of birth of any minor (under 18) children.
- Your bank or financial institution’s Routing Transit Number and the account number, for electronic deposits
Mailing the documents
The documents can be sent to the Social Security Administration but must include the Social Security number of the applicant. Do not write anything on original documents, the number should be on a separate sheet of paper but within the same mailing envelope.
If a person doesn’t want to mail, documents can be brought to a Social Security office. Do not mail foreign birth records or any documents from the Department of Homeland Security.
Further details can be found at: Apply Online for Disability Benefits (ssa.gov).