There are three ways to apply for SSD benefits. The first way is by calling the Social Security Administration (SSA). That phone number is (800) 772-1213. When you call you will speak with a caseworker who will do the application over the phone with you. You will need a list of your doctors, your medications, and your employment history for the past 15 years. This phone appointment usually takes approximately 30-45 minutes. This is a simple way to get your claim started but not the most recommended. It is fine once you get a caseworker on the phone but the wait times can be very long. The average wait time when you call into SSA can be anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour. Frustrating! If you would prefer not to wait on the phone for your appointment you can always mail in a paper application. If you decide to go this route make sure to send your application via certified mail. And also make a copy for yourself. I recommend calling your local Social Security office 2 weeks after you have sent the letter just to confirm they have received your application and they are processing the claim. It happens all too often that a paper application gets misplaced or even lost.
The easiest way to apply for Social Security disability benefits is online. You simply go to the website and you will be directed through the process. I am partial to online applications because you can complete them at your leisure and you have an online receipt of your application submission.
The best thing you can do when applying for disability benefits is to consult an attorney for guidance. While filing an online application allows you the freedom to complete the claim on your own terms, you are still facing the uphill battle of not knowing the rules and regulations that will be used to determine your claim. Moreover, working with the Social Security Administration can be a daunting task and, quite frankly, the regulations are confusing. When you hire a disability attorney you pay nothing out of pocket. The attorney’s fee is contingent and handled by the SSA itself. So if you are looking for the easiest path to obtaining disability benefits hire an attorney to handle the claim for you. Call me at the LaBovick Law Group for a free consultation today. You have nothing to lose but everything to gain. My number is (561) 623-3681. I look forward to speaking with you soon!
