Whether you were injured on the job or faced a debilitating illness, the result is the same. Your overall condition is just not good enough to go back to your physically demanding job. For this reason, the U.S. government implemented a safety net for workers in 1935. You have paid into this system all of your working life via payroll deduction. And, when you are unable to work due to a major illness or injury, it is time to consider filing for the Social Security Disability Program.

Applying for benefits is not easy. The denial rate for social security disability is quite high — 65 percent for initial claims and 91 percent for initial appeals. Clearly, it is a daunting task and getting legal guidance is wise. There are many questions you’ll need to have answered,

  • Who do you talk to you?
  • What information and documentation do you need to get started?
  • Where do you file?
  • How do you keep it all together?

If it sounds overwhelming, it definitely can be. However, you don’t have to go it alone. There is expert legal help available to you. Even better, there is no cost to you unless and until you win your SSD case.

How to File for Social Security Disability

The initial application is critical to the success or failure of your social security disability case. A simple mistake on this application can cause your claim to be rejected. Getting assistance right from the start will ensure that your claim process goes smoothly. There are four different ways to file a claim; you can file by mail, by phone, online, or in person. Which one is best in your particular case? The answer depends on your injury or illness and situation. An experienced disability lawyer will be able to guide you in the right direction.

Once you have filed your initial application, you’ll receive at least the below pair of questionnaires.

Work History Questionnaire Form 3369

Filing this form correctly requires that you input the exact information the Social Security Administration (SSA) needs. This information is required for the previous 15 years from the date of filing. Keep in mind, the SSA has your complete work history due to your annual tax returns. You must answer all questions, and if your form is not completely and accurately filled out, your claim will be denied.

Adult Function Report Form 3373

This form is used to assess the types of things you can and cannot do, and tells the SSA how your illness or injury impacts your ability to perform a job. There is likely more to this than you realize. For instance, can you meet the requirements of showing up and working for eight hours each day? Can you stand or sit for that period of time if required by the position? Do you take medications that preclude you from driving, or that affect your thinking or motor skills negatively? These elements are critical to your application.

Best Legal Advice for Filing for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits

The best advice that you will receive about filing your SSSD claim is very individualized to your exact situation. Meeting with an experienced and proficient disability lawyer is in your best interest. They understand how filling out the initial application and questionnaires can make a difference between success and failure in obtaining the benefits you need to support yourself. They also know which people at the SSA are kind and helpful, and which to avoid. In fact, they will handle all the documentation, calls and emails on your behalf.

If your life has gotten to the point where you need to file for SSDI, contact the professional lawyers at the Good Law Group before you apply. Applying for SSD is complex and time-consuming, but the staff at the Good Law Group handles these types of cases on a daily basis. They will explain the process and guide you through it. And remember, there is no charge at all to you until you win your case.