Disability benefits are provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA) through two programs:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
This is about the SSDI program. Disability benefits are for people who can't work because they have a medical condition that will:
- probably last for more than a year or
- result in death.
The process takes several months, so start as soon as possible. Family members of disabled workers may qualify for benefits too.
Apply for disability benefits online or call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 for an appointment at a local Social Security office. If you have a hearing impairment, use the TTY number: 1-800-325-0778.
The application asks for your Social Security number, date and place of birth, contact details of healthcare professionals, medication details, medical records, employment history, and tax-related documents. You may have to fill out other forms about your medical condition and give permission to your doctors to share records.The application process includes a disability claim interview, which lasts about an hour.
The SSA reviews applications and decides based on work history and current work activities. If you meet the basic requirements, they send the application to the Disability Determination Services office to review and help the SSA decide if you qualify.
Last Reviewed: September 3, 2024