How do I apply for SSDI?

You can apply online, by phone, or in person.[1698]

    Online: Visit SSA’s website (www.ssa.gov) and start a new application at https://secure.ssa.gov/iClaim/dib.[1699]
    By phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778). A representative will set up an appointment for you to do your application by phone. This toll-free line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. For each time you call, record the date of your call and the name of the person who helps you.[1700]
    In person: First, call the SSA to find the office nearest you; or, if you have Internet access, use the office locator at https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp. Then call to make an appointment.

TIPS FOR APPLYING TO SSDI:

    Apply as soon as possible when you become disabled. The application review process can take 3-5 months.[1701]
    Before you start, you may want to look over the Social Security Administration’s disability application checklist (see Appendix H, PG. 529) to gather the information you need. [1702]
    If you need help with the application, call the Social Security Administration or visit a local Social Security office. You have a right to assistance from Social Security representatives if you need help due to a disability.[1703]
    You have a right to appoint any individual—such as a friend, family member, attorney, social worker, or other trusted advocate—to act as your representative in the application process. To do so, use the “Appointment of Representative” form (a copy of form in Appendix F, PG. 518).[1704]
    If you need benefits right away due to a financial emergency, ask if you can get “expedited” benefits.[1705]
  1. 1698

    Other Ways to Apply to Benefits, Soc. Sec. Admin., http://www.socialsecurity.gov/info/isba/otherways.htm

  2. 1699

    See Apply Online for Disability Benefits, Soc. Sec. Admin. http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10550.pdf

  3. 1700

    If you complete your application within 60 days of your first phone call to request information or materials, the SSA will treat that call as the date of your application. Your Right to Representation, Prison Law Office (2011), http://www.prisonlaw.com/pdfs/BenefitsLetter,Aug2011.pdf

  4. 1701

    Disability Benefits, Soc. Sec. Admin., http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10029.pdf

  5. 1702

    Disability Planner: How You Apply, Soc. Sec. Admin., http://www.ssa.gov/dibplan/dapply.htm; Checklist for Online Adult Disability Application, Soc. Sec. Admin., http://www.ssa.gov/hlp/radr/10/ovw001-checklist.pdf

  6. 1703

    Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act; Your Right to Representation (2011), Prison Law Office, http://www.prisonlaw.com/pdfs/BenefitsLetter,Aug2011.pdf

  7. 1704

    Your Right to Representation, Soc. Sec. Admin., http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/EN-05-10075.pdf

  8. 1705

    Benefits Available to Paroling & Discharging Inmates (2011), Prison Law Office, http://www.prisonlaw.com/pdfs/BenefitsLetter,Aug2011.pdf