Applying for SSDI? Our Experienced Social Security Disability Lawyer in NYC Explains What You’ll Need
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be a daunting task. This is particularly true if you are suffering from a catastrophic injury or illness that makes it hard to focus and complete the paperwork. In fact, most people who are applying for SSDI do have some type of impairment which will inhibit their ability to effectively complete the necessary paperwork. Afterall, individuals who could easily complete the paperwork would likely not be applying for SSDI in the first place. Although the Social Security Administration (SSA) has streamlined the process in recent years, there are still many papers that are needed to apply for SSDI in New York. The best way to do this without delays is to have an experienced Social Security Disability lawyer in NYC like ours to help you.
Here at O’Connor Law, we have a proven track record of success helping individuals and their families navigate the complexities of SSDI. We know how difficult the application process can be which is why we offer FREE consultations to help individuals learn how we can help prepare, apply, appeal, or otherwise handle any type of Social Security application. Individuals should call our experienced Social Security Lawyer in NYC to schedule that FREE consultation with our well-trained and skilled staff of professionals.
What Papers Do I Need for an SSDI Application?
Applying for SSDI is a complex process. Initially, in order to be eligible, you must have some disability that is expected to last at least 12 months, have limited income or resources, be “disabled,” and have a qualifying work history. These requirements are just for eligibility and must be proven in your application.
In order to do this, the SSA will require all or most of the following documents (depending on your disability and the strength of the proof that you have):
- Birth certificate (certified copy is acceptable)
- Social security card
- For naturalized citizens, a certificate of citizenship or permanent resident card (green card) that is in good standing (i.e., renewed and not expired)
- If married, your marriage certificate or marriage license
- If divorced from a marriage that lasted more than 10 years, a copy of the judgment of divorce and, in some instances, a copy of the findings of fact or separation agreement
- Dependent information (i.e., their names, SSNs, birthdates, and a brief description)
- Copies of your W-2 forms, 1099s, or self-employment tax returns from at least the previous year but usually several years back
- Proof of the date of onset of your medical condition
- Proof of your work history (at least the last 10 years if you have been continuously employed, but you may have to go back as far as 20 years)
- Information and a description of each job you have had for the last 10 to 20 years, tasks and duties, and what work you did while there
- Any information on military service, if applicable, including discharge papers
- Medical proof to support your disability, sometimes in the form of your medical records but sometimes you may need a medical expert or an affidavit from a treating physician to establish your injury or illness
- Contact information of your medical providers
- A medical chronology is helpful with dates, doctors, facilities, and treatment information
- Copies of medical records
- A completed Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form that is completed by your primary care doctor or another type of treating physician
- Any information of a collateral source, such as workers’ compensation benefits that have been paid
- For direct deposit, your bank account and routing numbers
- Any other statements from spouses, employers, caregivers, siblings, children, parents, or any other individuals who may have interacted or worked with you in the past – especially those you have worked with you on a near-daily or frequent basis and know you pre-disability and post-disability, and
- Any other information that may help your SSDI claim or that may be requested by the SSA.
Do You Need Help Applying for SSDI? Call Our Experienced Social Security Disability Lawyers in NYC for Help
The application process for SSDI is confusing – especially if you are seriously injured or ill from a disabling condition that prevents you from working. Instead of trying to complete the paperwork yourself, and possibly causing delays or a denial, call our experienced Social Security Disability lawyers in NYC for help. Here at the O’Connor Law Firm, our compassionate team knows how to navigate the complex matrix set up by the SSA for these types of applications. We can prevent you from having denials or other types of prolonged delays due to missing paperwork, incomplete applications, and lack of support. If you or a loved one may be eligible for SSDI benefits, please schedule a FREE consultation by dialing (844) 692-6671 or by sending us a private message through our “Contact Us” box available here.
