Disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) can include monthly payments through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), dependent/auxiliary benefits, or all of these.

The application process requires a number of different forms, and while applying will take some time and effort as well as patience, once you’re approved, you’ll have the financial security you need to focus on your health, wellbeing, and on getting on with everyday life.

An approval for disability benefits brings a degree of financial security for you and your family, something you may have feared you’d never have again after your disability put you out of work. Before you can start collecting disability though, you’ll need to apply for benefits and support your claim with appropriate medical records and other documentation. Following, you’ll learn what documents and forms to submit along with your application, and which are most useful at the appeals level instead.

Disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) can be a financial lifeline for you and your family when you’re unable to work. Getting a decision on your claim can sometimes take months though.

Although there really isn’t any way to speed up the process, some disability cases are reviewed more quickly than others. Additionally some things you can do to prevent avoidable delays.

Although many decide to file alone, without the assistance of an attorney or disability advocate, having help from the start can potentially improve your chances of getting an approval from the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Legal Help at the First Review and Reconsideration Stages

The disability review process goes through multiple stages for many applications. The first review takes place after you fill out and submit your application. If you’re found ineligible at this stage, you can request a reconsideration.

Social Security disability benefits offer ongoing and consistent financial support for disabled Americans and their families. These benefits pay monthly and ensure people with disabilities of all ages have what they need to cover every day bills, pay medical expenses, and meet other financial obligations.