Not sure how to apply for Social Security disability benefits? Make sure you follow this guide to get a step by step walkthrough of the process.

About 1 in 4 Americans live with a disability. Some of those disabilities keep sufferers from working which can severely impact their ability to live.

Fortunately, the United States has a system in place to help compensate individuals that are not eligible to work. This program is carried out through social security and pays monthly payments to those who qualify.

If you’re curious to know how to get social security disability benefits, this post is for you.

In it, we concisely break down the steps you’ll need to follow to get the payments you may be entitled to.

Review Documents

The social security disability benefits application is lengthy and will require lots of personal information. Before heading over to the application, you’d be well served to understand what information will be asked of you and to prepare documents accordingly.

The social security service’s website offers insight on that front that you can access here.

Head Over to the Application

With your documents in place and a good grounding in whether or not you likely qualify for disability, it’s time to start filling out your application. Applicants for disability benefits will start their application process here.

While filling out the application, take your time to ensure data is entered correctly.

Putting in information incorrectly could result in a lengthy wait period followed by a denial you’ll have to appeal.

Hold for Review

Disability applications are processed by the Disability Determination Services office. This office is running at the state level so the speed in which your application will be reviewed will vary based on state protocols and funding.

Disability applications can take weeks to assess. For that reason, you’ll want to make sure you have a backup means of income/support in place to keep you satiated during the review process.

Furthermore, be aware that even if your application is approved, it takes six months from the date you became disabled for your first disability check to arrive.

Appeal if Necessary

Not all social security disability benefits applications get approved. Rejections can be attributed to several things including not having worked long enough, not having paid into social security, or incorrect information being provided.

If your application is rejected and you don’t agree with the reasoning behind your rejection, you have the right to appeal a decision. Appeals can be filed after a denial on the social security website.

Connect With an Advocate

Filling out social security applications can be difficult. If you’re finding the process to be too hard to manage, seek out support from free or paid advocates in your area to help you through the process.

Your local community leaders should have information on what’s offered in your area.

Social Security Disability Benefits Keep Vulnerable Populations Safe

The vast majority of people working in the United States pay into their state’s social security program. That money is yours to call on if you find yourself unable to work so always take steps to claim it when needed.

We hope our insight helps you gain access to your social security disability benefits and we welcome you to read more helpful content on our blog should you need additional guidance.