How to apply for Social Security Disability, SSI and Child SSI benefits.


On this page I will explain how to apply for Social Security disability benefits also called SSD and SSDI. I will also explain how to apply for SSI which stands for supplemental security income benefits. I will also explain how to apply for child's SSI benefits. I will also explain some of the information you should gather to be prepared to make your application.

How to apply for Social Security disability benefits.

There are a few ways you can apply for SSD benefits. You can call Social Security's toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 and make an appointment at your local office. You can also use the Social Security website local SSA office finder to locate the address of the office that would handle your claim and apply in person without an appointment, however if you do not make an appointment you can expect to wait quite a bit longer. Another way you can apply for SSDI benefits is by applying online at the Social Security Administration's website. To do this simply click on the link apply online. No matter which method you choose, to get ready to apply you should gather certain information that you will need for your application that will make things go much smoother. You should have certain medical information such as where you are being treated for your medical conditions include all doctors hospitals and clinics. Also try and gather the address, dates and phone number of these places that you were treated. You should also get together any medical records that you already have so you can submit them. You will also want to have the names and amounts of medication you are taking and what you are taking them for. You should also have a birth certificate which must be an original or certified copy. If you were born elsewhere SSA will need proof of US citizenship or legal residency. If you served in the military you also need a copy of your military discharge papers for your periods of active duty (DD214). You should also have a copy of your W-2 form from last year if you were working and federal tax return if you were self-employed. SSA will also need any information in regards to the workers compensation claim. You should also make sure to have your spouse and children's Social Security numbers. It is also good idea to have the name address and phone number of someone Social Security can reach in case they can not get a hold of you. You also need to be able to explain all of the jobs you've had in the past 15 years including what types of jobs, your pay and when you worked. You will also want to be able to provide them with a bank account number.  Visit my other website for more information on applying for Social Security Disability Benefits.

How to apply for SSI benefits also called supplemental security income benefits?

To make an application for SSI benefits you can also call the toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 and make an appointment at your local office. You can also simply go down to your local district office and apply without an appointment however, I again you can expect to wait much longer. You cannot apply online for SSI benefits, however you can make a phone appointment. To apply for SSI benefits you must be a US citizen or national or in one of the certain categories of aliens. If you are not sure if you meet the requirements you should call SSA to find out. Because SSI is a needs-based program besides having the above information outlined in the application for Social Security disability benefits SSA will also look at your income and resources to determine if you are eligible.

How to apply for child's SSI benefits.

Applying for child's SSI benefits is the same in many ways is applying for adult SSI benefits. You cannot file online so you should call the SSA toll-free number and make an appointment at your local SSA office. Some information you will want to have is information about the child's medical condition, the doctors and hospitals where the child has received treatment which include address, phone numbers and dates. You also want to have the school name and address where the child attends including any special education programs the child is in. You should also include any work history. Since child's SSI is also a needs-based program SSA will want to know about the income and resources of the household in which the child lives.