How do I begin the process of applying for Social Security Disability?

To start the process of applying for Social Security Disability benefits, you must complete and submit a Social Security Benefit Application, Adult Disability Report, and an Authorization to Disclose Medical Records to the Social Security Administration. The Social Security Benefit Application is the application submitting your claim, the Adult Disability Report requests information related to your disability, and the Authorization to Disclose Medical Records authorizes the Social Security Administration to obtain copies of your medical records from your healthcare providers.

You may complete the application and related forms online at www.SocialSecurity.gov or in person by calling the Social Security Administration office at 1-800-772-1213 and scheduling an appointment.

In order to avoid delay in processing your disability application, we recommend that you compile the following information and documents before you begin the application process, regardless of whether you are applying online or in person:

1. The name, address, and phone number of each doctor or facility where you have received medical treatment, together with the dates of treatment and your patient ID number;
2. A copy of all medical records related to your injury or illness, including all lab reports and test results;
3. A list of all medications that you have been prescribed for your injury or illness and the medical provider who prescribed said medication;
4. Information regarding your work history, specifically up to five jobs that you have held in the last 15 years, including the name, address, and phone number of the employer, the position you held, dates of employment, and rate of pay;
5. Your last W–2 wage statement (or last year’s tax return if self-employed) and any records showing current year-to-date earnings;
6. Your Social Security number;
7. The Social Security numbers of your children and spouse;
8. Military discharge papers, if you have been in the military; and
9. Your checking or savings account number and bank routing number (for direct deposit of your benefits).

Visit our Social Security Disability Self Help page for further information.