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Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits

Although a First Coast Social Security disability lawyer can help you tremendously if you are appealing a denial of disability benefits, you must first get the ball rolling on your claim by applying for benefits. If you are disabled, you can apply for Social Security disability benefits over the internet, over the phone, or by visiting your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office.

Before Applying

You will also be asked to complete a “Disability Report” before you apply. The “disability report” is a form in which you describe how your disability prevents you from working. Applicants under 50 will also have to explain how their disability prevents them from working at any job they’ve had over the past 15 years and from working at an easy full time job now.

No matter how you apply, make sure you answer all the questions the SSA asks you, both verbally and in the forms, as accurately and as thoroughly as possible, and do not exaggerate your disability.

Applying Over the Internet

Your first option for applying for benefits is visiting the Social Security Administration’s website at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability/.

You cannot apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) online. However if you do apply for SSI by other means, you will be able to fill out one of the required forms, the “Adult Disability and Work History Report,” through the website.

Applying Over the Phone

You can apply over the phone by calling 1-800-772-1213. The SSA will likely be unable to take your application right when you call. Rather, you will likely be making a phone appointment. An SSA representative will call you when your appointment arrives and take your application then. The SSA will then mail you a completed application for you to verify and sign.

You may also use the same process to apply for SSI.

Applying by Visiting an SSA Office

You will need to make an appointment if you wish to apply for Social Security benefits or SSI in person. To schedule your visit, call 1-800-772-1213 and a Social Security representative will help you make the appointment, give you directions, and tell you what documents you’ll need to bring to your appointment.

If you have a physical or mental impairment that keeps you from working, please call First Coast Social Security disability lawyer John Fagan for a free evaluation of your claim.

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