Social Security Disability
Applying for Benefits
A disability application asks you to explain your health and work history while you may already be struggling to manage both. Stansberry Kinsley’s disability lawyers help people across Alabama understand the application and prepare the information it needs.
Start with your most recent notice and where your claim stands. You do not need every record before asking for a case review.
Your situation
What to understand first.
Do I have to wait a year before applying?
No. Social Security says to apply as soon as you become disabled. The rule considers a disability that is expected to last at least 12 months, so you do not have to wait for a year to pass before applying. When payments can begin is a separate question.
What information will I need?
Your medical providers, treatment, medications and work history help explain the application. It is also useful to describe when working became difficult and how your condition changed the tasks you could do.
The program matters too: SSDI considers covered work history, while SSI has financial requirements. We can explain the information relevant to your situation.
What if the application is denied?
A denial can generally be appealed within 60 days after you receive the notice. Some requests relating to continued benefits have shorter time limits. The decision letter is the starting point for understanding the appeal and its timing.
What to keep
Start with the information you have.
Keep available records together. This is a starting list, not a requirement to gather everything before getting in touch.
How do I describe my limitations?
Use examples from your own work and daily life. If you need to stop and rest, have trouble concentrating, or cannot keep up with a physical task, explain what happens and how often. A clear description connects your medical condition with the work you are trying to do.
What if I’m already partway through?
Tell us what you have submitted and whether Social Security has asked for more information. Keep a copy of the application and any notices. We can review the next step with you, including a response date shown in a letter.
Ask about timing early.
Social Security notices state the dates that apply to you, and some requests have short windows. Keep the notice and its envelope, note when it arrived, and ask for a prompt review of the dates in your notice.
The next step
What happens next.
A case review is a place to begin understanding the questions your claim raises.
Tell us where your claim stands.
Start with the program named in your paperwork, the stage your claim has reached, and the questions you want answered.
Review the available information.
Discuss your notices, the medical and work information already supplied, and anything Social Security has asked for.
Understand the next step.
Ask what further information may be needed and which next steps may be appropriate for your circumstances.
What will it cost?
In Social Security disability cases, the fee an attorney may charge is limited by federal law and must be approved by the Social Security Administration. We’ll explain the proposed fee and any case expenses in a written agreement before you decide whether to hire us.
Talk with us
Tell us what happened and what you need help with. You can request a Free Case Review or call 844-327-5529.
Related reading: Do I Qualify? · Denied Benefits and Appeals · Help Filing Your Initial Social Security Disability Application · How to create a my Social Security Account.
You can start with the questions you have.