Social Security Disability Application Process

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If you would like to start receiving Social Security Disability benefits, you’ll need to submit an application to the Social Security Administration. The application process is substantially more complex than simply filling out a form, signing it, and mailing it in, however. In fact, most people make at least one mistake on their application, and the SSA denies the overwhelming majority of first-time applications it receives. And that’s not necessarily something that many people who depend on their social security disability benefits want to hear.

At Goodman Acker, P.C., our Detroit Social Security Disability attorneys are well-versed in Social Security programs and can provide you with the counsel and guidance you need through every step of the process. Whether you’re just starting to consider your options or you need help with a later-stage appeal, you can trust us to provide you with the qualified counsel and legal advice you need to give you the best chance at success. We not only help you get the process started, but we see it through to the end to help you get the benefits you need when you’ve suffered a debilitating condition.

A Brief Summary of the Application Process

The SSD application is a multi-stage process that can take anywhere from five months to a year or more to complete, plus extra time for appeals if your claim is denied. To help you better understand what you can expect on this journey, here is a brief synopsis of a typical Social Security Disability application.

Initial Preparation

This is when you (and an attorney) will work together to gather the necessary information about your decision, determine if it qualifies you for benefits, and then start preparing to apply. You’ll need doctor’s records, medical treatment and medication histories, and plenty of other information in order to properly support your claim and reduce the chances of being denied. A qualified lawyer can help you create a list of the right evidence to have and ensure you receive it before applying.

Initial Application

Once you have completed your preparation, you’ll submit your application to the Social Security Administration. This application gives the SSA some information about yourself, including your age, your income, and several other things, and discusses your condition and how it has come to impact your life. The submission process can take between 90 and 120 days to complete in order to make sure you have the proper medical documentation and evidence needed. And on top of that, less than one-third of all applications received are accepted at this stage.

The Appeals Process

If your claim is denied, you’ll have 60 days to start the appeals process, beginning with a request for reconsideration. This simply involves sending your claim back to the SSA for a second review. However, less than 15 percent of all claims that go through this process are approved. After that, you’ll be able to plead your case in a hearing and then one more time before a council. If that doesn’t work, you’ll have one more opportunity to have your case heard in a federal district court.

LEGALLY REVIEWED BY BARRY J. GOODMAN

Barry J. Goodman has devoted his professional life to keeping courthouse doors open for victims seeking justice. Always a tireless advocate for his own clients, Goodman sees his responsibility as a Detroit personal injury attorney in a broader sense as well. [ Attorney Bio ]