Social Security SSI Disability Application Tips

Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2009/02/16 - Updated: 2022/03/16
Category Topic: U.S. Social Security - Academic Publications

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: Tips for those applying for Social Security SSI Disability including ensuring the disability application is completely filled out and all supporting medical evidence submitted. Those applying for SSI Disability know that it is getting increasingly tough to win benefits. If you are self representing, it is advised you thoroughly go through the disability application and check for errors.

Introduction

Disabled applicants should pay particular attention to the SSI Disability application and take additional time to ensure their application is completely filled out and all supporting medical evidence is properly submitted.

Main Content

Understanding the SSI Disability Application Process:

When a person applies for SSI Disability there are three stages. If at any point during these three stages it is decided you will be awarded benefits, the process stops.

1. Application

The first stage requires submitting a 2009 Social Security Disability application. This application can be submitted by mail, phone or online.

2. Request For Reconsideration

If you are denied SSI Disability benefits at the application level there are several appeal processes in place.

In most states the next step to appeal a denied application is to complete a document called a "Request for Reconsideration." In many cases this request will also be denied because the people reviewing the paperwork are the same people that just rejected your application. Essentially, you're asking them to admit they were wrong.

3. Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge

If your case makes it to this step you leave the State agency level and enter the Federal level through the Social Security Administration.

The SSA holds a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is significant because this judge is independent from the previous denied decisions. This process can be lengthy, ranging from 6 months to 2 years to get a hearing date. Prior to your hearing it is recommended you submit new or updated medical evidence about your disability impairment(s) and symptom(s).

Far too many disability claimants have to wait two years or more to receive benefits because of errors that were avoidable. Though you do not need a Social Security Disability attorney to represent your disability claim, with the experienced knowledge that a Social Security disability lawyer can offer, you stand a better chance of winning SSI Disability benefits with a disability lawyer than without one.

How to Avoid Being Denied SSI Disability

Those applying for SSI Disability know that it is getting increasingly tough to win benefits. If you are self representing, it is advised you thoroughly go through the disability application and check for errors.

It is also advised you provide very detailed documentation about your condition and submit this documentation as medical evidence.

Finally, make sure you monitor and update the status of your case.

Medical Evidence and SSI Disability Applications

Many SSI Disability cases are denied because they failed to demonstrate the existence of the disabling medical condition. Too often these deserving cases are denied, or take longer in the process than needed to win benefits because the applicant did not provide sufficient medical evidence.

Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.