Published on: March 3, 2016
Have you been trying or thinking about applying for Social Security Disability in Florida? If you have, then you have most likely come to the conclusion that it’s not as easy as filling out an application.
If you are disabled, you likely aren’t apt or able to complete the SSA application process in general. Not to mention the lengthy wait to get approved and then to begin receiving your much needed benefits. The application process alone can range anywhere between three to five months.
The Social Security Administration has tried to make it easier by offering three ways to apply for disability benefits:
- Online
- Phone
- In person
What You Will Need to Successfully Apply
The SSA’s application process involves completing the application, which can be lengthy and often filled with complex terminology. Additionally, the SSA requires documentation to prove who you are and your status as a citizen of the United States as well as medical documentation to support your disability claim.
Additional documentation and paperwork you will need to include when applying for SS disability benefits include:
- Birth or baptismal certificate
- Names, phone numbers and dates of doctors, caseworkers, hospitals or clinics that have treated your condition
- Laboratory or test results
- Summary of where you worked and what tasks you performed
- Copy of your most recent W-2 (Wage and Tax Statement)
- Completed form detailing your medical condition and how it affects your ability to work
- Completed form by your doctors or hospital professionals that have treated you and give the SSA permission to receive info about your medical condition
Pros and Cons
Deciding which application process is best for you depends on personal preference and what is most convenient for you. Below are just a few things to keep in mind when deciding which process will be most beneficial to you.
Online
- You can start the application process immediately
- Apply in the safety and convenience of your own home
- Complete your application at your own pace
- Avoid a trip to your local Social Security Administration office
Phone
- Have direct communication with a claims representative
- Wait for an appointment
In Person
- Must bring a photo ID
- Interview style’d application process
- Have a direct contact with a claims representative prior to your claim being transferred to a disability examiner
- Wait for an appointment.
Just remember that no matter which application process you choose to follow through with, every detail of the application will be addressed either online, by phone or in person-- be prepared to answer personal or even invasive questions including your SS number, your birthplace/ date, your address etc.
After Application process
After you have completed your online application, the SSA will send you a confirmation receipt either by email or mail. They will then review your application, and if they need any further documentation, they will contact you to let you know what they still need. Once they have made a decision, you will receive a letter in the mail notifying you that you are:
- Application status-- approved or denied
- The amount of your monthly benefits
- The effective date of your disability benefits
Overwhelmed? We Can Help
If you are suffering from a disabling condition, we understand how difficult it can be. The Social Security Administration’s disability benefits application can be challenging to complete.
If you have been denied benefits in the past or are applying for disability benefits in Florida, contact an experienced and compassionate advocate who can help gather the required paperwork and understand the convoluted system.
