How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits: A Step-by-Step Guide and Video

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can feel overwhelming, but having the right information can make the process much smoother. In the video below, experienced disability attorney Josh Worley walks you through every step of the application process, providing key insights and tips to help you file successfully.

In this video, you'll learn:

• What information you need to gather before applying, including medical and work history

• Discussions/explanations of some of the most important questions on the application

• The significance of your disability onset date and how to choose it correctly

• Common mistakes that lead to denials and how to avoid them

• How to complete and submit your application efficiently

• What to expect after filing, including possible follow-up requests and next steps

We offer a free PDF guide to completing an SSD application that goes with this video, which you will want to download before getting started.

This guide serves as a supplement to the video, breaking down the most important points to ensure you have everything you need to get started. By following this step-by-step process, you can improve your chances of submitting a strong application and avoiding unnecessary delays.

Who Should Watch This Video

This video is designed for anyone considering applying for Social Security Disability benefits, whether you’re filing for the first time or have already been denied and are looking for guidance. You may find this video particularly helpful if:

• You are unable to work due to a serious medical condition

• You are considering filing for SSD or SSI but don’t know where to start

• You’ve heard that the process is complicated and want to avoid mistakes

• You’ve already applied but are worried about potential errors or inconsistencies

• You want to understand the process in detail so you can improve your chances of approval

• You are assisting a loved one in applying for disability benefits

By watching this video and following along with the guide, you can gain valuable insights that will help you prepare a strong application and avoid unnecessary delays.

Why This Guide and Video Are Important

Filing for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits isn’t as simple as filling out a form. Many claimants unknowingly provide information that can negatively impact their case. A small mistake or inconsistency can lead to a denial, causing months or even years of delay. 

Relying on over 20 years of experience handling Social Security Disability claims, attorney Josh Worley created this guide and video to help you:

• Understand the application process from start to finish

• Avoid common mistakes and pitfalls that can lead to denial

• Learn how to properly document your medical conditions

• Ensure your application is as strong as possible

Key Steps to Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits

1. Create a Social Security Account

Before you begin, you need to set up an online account with the Social Security Administration (SSA) at ssa.gov. This allows you to save your progress and return to your application if needed. Having an account also makes it easier to track your claim and receive important updates.

2. Gather Necessary Information

To complete your application, you’ll need details about your:

• Medical conditions and treatment history

• Doctors, hospitals, and clinics where you’ve received care

• Medications and medical tests

• Work history for the past five years

• Any workers’ compensation or other benefits you may receive

Having this information prepared in advance will make the process faster and help you avoid unnecessary delays. Missing or inaccurate information can result in delays or denials.

3. Provide Accurate and Honest Information

Accuracy is critical. Double-check details like doctors' addresses and phone numbers. Inaccurate information can cause delays. Additionally, be honest about your work history and medical conditions—exaggerations or inconsistencies can harm your credibility. Social Security will verify your information, and discrepancies can weaken your claim.

4. Determine Your Disability Onset Date

The onset date is the day you became unable to work due to your medical condition. This date should align with your medical records. If you stopped working months before seeing a doctor, use the date when you had documented medical evidence of your condition. Keep in mind that Social Security only pays retroactive benefits for up to one year before the application date, so choosing a date years in the past may not benefit you.

5. Understand the Difference Between SSD and SSI

Social Security offers two disability programs:

• Social Security Disability (SSD): Based on your work history and contributions to Social Security.

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): A needs-based program for individuals with low income and resources.

If you're unsure which program applies to you, check the box indicating that you’d like to apply for both. Social Security will determine your eligibility. If your income and assets exceed certain limits, you may not qualify for SSI, but it’s worth checking.

6. Be Prepared for Additional Forms

After submitting your application, you may receive additional forms, including:

• Work History Report: Details about your past jobs.

• Function Report: Information on how your condition affects your daily life.

• Third-Party Function Report: A form sent to someone who knows you well (optional—be cautious about whom you list).

These forms help Social Security assess the severity of your condition and how it impacts your ability to work. Be thorough and consistent when completing them.

7. Monitor Deadlines and Appeals

If your claim is denied, don’t give up. You have 60 days to file an appeal. Many people are initially denied but win their case on appeal. If needed, our firm can assist you at this stage. Filing your appeal on time is crucial to keeping your case active. The appeals process can take several months or even years, so persistence is key.

8. Know What to Expect After Applying

Once you submit your application, Social Security may:

• Request additional medical records

• Schedule a consultative medical exam

• Ask for more details about your work history

A decision typically takes between two to six months. If denied, don’t panic—many strong cases are initially denied and later approved through appeals. Be prepared for the long process and keep track of your claim status.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Exaggerating or downplaying your condition – Your statements must match your medical records.

2. Being inconsistent across forms – Ensure all details remain the same across different forms.

3. Missing deadlines – Not filing an appeal within 60 days can end your claim.

4. Choosing an incorrect onset date – Pick a date that aligns with medical documentation.

5. Failing to track your application – Keep your re-entry number so you don’t lose progress.

6. Not listing all medical conditions – Include every condition, even minor ones like high blood pressure or anxiety.

7. Failing to describe daily struggles – Use the remarks section to explain how your condition affects daily life.

8. Ignoring follow-up requests – If Social Security asks for additional documentation, provide it as soon as possible.

9. Not requesting help when needed – If you're unsure about something, reach out for assistance.

What If You Need Help Filing for Disability?

Applying for disability benefits is challenging, and statistics show that claimants with attorneys are three times more likely to be approved than those who apply on their own. 

If you feel overwhelmed or want assistance, you are not alone.  We have helped over a thousand individuals all over the country with their disability claims.  We are happy to help you as well!

Contact us today at 575-300-4000 to schedule your FREE consultation or fill out our contact form.