How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits

Milwaukee, WI Attorney For Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income

In the United States, the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides benefits to people with qualifying disabilities, primarily through the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. In order to take advantage of these benefits, you will need to submit an application including detailed information about your medical condition, your work history, and more, to prove that you qualify.

The application process can be challenging, and many applications are initially denied. Attorney Jonathan Pearson is committed to doing everything in his power to increase your chances of success. With his experience and dedication to serving people with disabilities in their efforts to obtain Social Security benefits, he will help you prepare your application and manage any difficulties that you encounter. Jonathan personally handles every case, and he does not charge an attorney fee until and unless you are granted benefits. He will guide you through the following steps as you begin the process of applying.

Understand the Eligibility Criteria

Different types of disability benefits have different eligibility criteria, and before you start applying, you should be sure that you are well-informed as to whether you are eligible and which benefits you are eligible for. Jonathan will thoroughly review your case and advise you based on his knowledge and experience.

Both SSDI and SSI benefits require that you have a qualifying disability that prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months. Certain conditions are specifically recognized by the SSA, while others require that you demonstrate their severity and impact on your work abilities. The two programs differ in that SSDI requires you to have contributed to Social Security throughout your past employment, while SSI requires that you have a financial need due to low income and resources.

Gather Important Documents

Submitting detailed information along with your application can help your review proceed more smoothly and efficiently. Attorney Jonathan Pearson will help you gather all relevant documents that the SSA and the Wisconsin Disability Determination Bureau (DDB) will want to consider. This includes personal documents like your birth certificate and proof of citizenship or lawful immigration status, W-2 forms regarding your recent employment status and income, and medical records related to your condition and the treatment you have received.

Decide on Your Preferred Application Method

You have a few different options for submitting your application to the SSA, depending on your preference and the type of benefits for which you are applying. These options include:

• Applying online. The SSA website offers an online application option for SSDI benefits, allowing you to complete the application at your convenience. In some cases, it is also possible to apply for SSI benefits online. Even if you cannot complete the entire application online, there are several important forms available for you to complete on the website.
• Applying by phone. You can call the SSA toll-free at 800-772-1213, or 800-325-0778 for the hearing-impaired, to work on your application over the phone, ask questions, and schedule an in-person appointment.
• Applying in person. The SSA has local offices in Milwaukee, Waukesha, and other locations throughout Wisconsin where you can complete your application on-site. Scheduling an appointment in advance can reduce your waiting time and ensure that a representative is available to meet with you.

Fill Out the Application

Regardless of the method you choose, Jonathan will guide you through the completion of your application, ensuring that you answer all important questions thoroughly and correctly. You will be asked to respond to a variety of questions about yourself, your family, your medical condition, treatment providers, work history and job tasks, your income, and any other benefits you may receive for your disability. Your answers to these questions are crucial to the determination of your eligibility as the SSA and DDB review your case.

Contact a Milwaukee County Attorney For Help With Your SSD Application

For a free initial consultation, contact us today at 414-240-4801. We can assist with your application in Milwaukee County or Waukesha County, or throughout the surrounding areas, including Milwaukee, West Allis, South Milwaukee, Greenfield, Oak Creek, and Wauwatosa.