Initial SSDI and SSI applications
Start with a defensible onset date and a complete factual record.
A disability application is not merely a list of diagnoses. It is a claim that particular medically determinable impairments prevented sustained work beginning on a particular date. The application should be consistent with earnings, medical records, treatment, prior claims, unemployment, workers’ compensation, and other benefits.
Information to organize
- Every medical provider, facility, therapist, emergency room, and testing source
- Current medications, doses, side effects, and treatment response
- Jobs performed during the relevant period, including actual duties and physical demands
- Education, training, licenses, military service, and vocational background
- Work attempts, reduced hours, accommodations, absences, and reasons work ended
- Daily activities explained with help, breaks, frequency, duration, and recovery time
- Prior disability applications and decisions
Five questions Social Security ultimately asks.
This is a simplified description of the adult sequential evaluation process. Technical and program-specific rules also apply.
Application questions
What information should I gather before applying?
Prepare a detailed provider list, medication list, diagnoses, testing, work history, education, earnings information, and the dates your conditions began affecting work.
Do I need to stop all work before applying?
Not necessarily, but work activity and earnings are central issues. The legal effect depends on amount, duration, self-employment, accommodations, subsidies, and whether the work attempt was successful.
Does a doctor have to say I am disabled?
A treating source’s opinion can be important, but SSA makes the ultimate legal decision. Useful evidence explains specific work-related limitations and is supported by treatment and examination findings.
Should I wait until I have more records?
Waiting can affect filing dates and potential benefits. At the same time, an application should identify all providers and material evidence. The timing decision should be made with the actual circumstances in mind.
Official sources and further reading
Links open official government resources. This page provides general information and is not a substitute for advice about an individual claim.
When winning means everything
Talk with an Atlanta Social Security disability lawyer.
Call about an application, denial, appeal, hearing, or deadline. Do not send a Social Security number through the website form.
