Q. What is the definition that Social Security uses for
disability?
A. According to the Social Security Act, "disability" is the
"inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by
reason of any medically determinable physical or mental
impairment which can be expected to result in death or has
lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of
not less than 12 months."
Q. What documents do I need to have to apply for Social
Security disability?
A. You may need any of the following:
- Social Security card (or a
record of your number);
- Your birth certificate or
proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status if you
were not born in the U.S.;
- Your military discharge
papers if you had military service; and
- W-2 form from last year,
or your last year's tax return if you're self-employed.
SPECIAL NOTE: If you are
missing a document, don't delay signing up for Social
Security disability. You will need to provide that document
later, but the application date is important.
See our resource page for Social
Security links.
Q. I am definitely disabled, so I should have no problem
with having my application for benefits approved, right?
A. Unfortunately, almost 60 % of original applications for
Social Security Disability benefits are denied. Many of
these are approved during the appeals process.
Q. Do I have to go into the Social Security office to
apply for disability payments? It is so difficult for me to
get transportation.
A. As of January 28, 2002 we have a new answer for you. It
is now possible to file for Social Security Disability
Benefits online to start your application.
Apply for benefits.
Q. If I fill out my application online, can I delete it
if I need to?
A. The application is left on Social Security records for
six-months. They are required to protect the date that you
first indicated you wanted to apply for Social Security
Benefits.
Q. I have heard about a
list of approved disabilities for benefits. How do I know if
my disability is on this list?
A. Actually, there are two lists within the social security
system that allows a claimant to automatically qualify for
benefits: one for adult disabling conditions
and one for children that lists applicable
impairments. Your disability does not need to be on this
list. You only need to prove that your disability is the
equivalent of a condition that has already been approved for
benefits.
Q. English is not my first language. What if I need an
interpreter for these medical terms?
A. Interpreter services are provided free of charge by the
Social Security Administration. The service is provided
upon request of a claimant or beneficiary. You may also
bring your own interpreter to the interview. Your
interpreter must be at least 18 years old; be able to read,
write and demonstrate fluency in English; and be able to
read, write and demonstrate fluency in the language that you
speak. |
