If you have a physical or medical condition that makes it challenging for you to work, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), you should have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes on your earnings recently enough to apply for the benefits.
In addition to meeting these requirements, you need to provide several documents to be approved. They include:
Birth certificate
You should have your birth certificate or other proof of birth when applying for SSD benefits. This proves your identity, citizenship status and age.
Proof of citizenship
If you were not born in the U.S., you should have proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status. Examples include a U.S. passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad and a Certificate of Naturalization, among others.
Tax documents
You will provide your W-2 forms and/or self-employment tax returns for the previous year to show you have been paying taxes.
Adult disability report
The adult disability report explains your condition or injury in depth. It’s crucial as it determines the result of your disability claim. Luckily, the administration provides everything you need to know to complete the report.
You will fill out your conditions, work activity, education and training and job history. Further, you will provide details about your medication, including medicines and medical treatment.
Medical evidence
You need to provide your medical records, doctors’ reports, and recent test results. Only provide the evidence you already possess. With your permission, the administration will ask your doctors for more documents.
Applying for SSD benefits with the proper documentation can increase your chances of approval. It will also help to get professional guidance to have a smooth process.