Five Important Documents Needed In Filing A Social Security Disability Claim
Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) can help provide a steady source of income for you and your family in the event long-term disabilities prevent you from working. Unfortunately, the majority of SSDI claims end up being denied on the first application. One of the most common reasons for denied disability benefits is not providing the proper documentation. Our Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer details five important types of documents you will need.
Documents To Include With Your Application To Prevent Denied Social Security Disability Benefits
According to statistics from the Social Security Administration (SSA) roughly two-thirds of all applications for disability benefits end up being denied. In addition to not having a qualifying condition and mistakes in filling out the application, one of the most common reasons is a lack of proper documentation.
In some cases, Social Security will notify you of the missing documents and provide a timeline for submitting them. While this is better than receiving an outright denial, it could still result in lengthy delays in getting the benefit payments you so urgently need. To prevent this from happening, be sure and include the following with your application:
- A copy of your birth certificate: This is something to make sure you have prior to filing a Social Security disability claim. You can obtain a copy from the local health department in whatever county you were born. If you were not born in the U.S., you will need proof of citizenship status instead.
- Proof of income: Include W-2 forms and any self-employment tax returns filed for the prior year.
- An adult disability form: You can download and print this form from the SSA website. It contains important information about your wage history and your medical condition.
- Medical evidence in your case: This includes statements from your doctor, medical records, recent test results, and information regarding treatments and/or medications you are taking.
- Information regarding other benefits you received: If your condition previously entitled you to workers’ compensation, short term disability, or other types of benefits, include information regarding any payments and award statements as well. If you qualify for military benefits, include information about the amount and your date of discharge.
Request A Consultation With Our Florida Long-Term Disability Attorney
Applying for Social Security disability benefits can be a confusing process. Mistakes or errors on your application and not submitting the required documentation could result in denied or delayed benefits.
To get the total amount of long-term benefits you are entitled to in the quickest amount of time possible, reach out to Farrell Disability Law. We have decades’ worth of experience helping clients in these cases and can guide you through the application process. If you already have a denied or delayed claim, we can file an appeal on your behalf or take other legal actions as needed. Give us a call or contact our Florida long-term disability attorney online to request a consultation in our Jacksonville or Orlando office today.
Sources:
ssa.gov/news/press/factsheets/basicfact-alt.pdf
ssa.gov/forms/ssa-3368-bk.pdf