For anyone wondering how to file for disability, we’re here to help. Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already navigating health challenges. The process involves multiple steps, strict eligibility requirements, and detailed paperwork — but knowing what to expect can make the experience more manageable.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire SSDI application process, from the initial filing to potential appeals, so you can approach each step with confidence.
What Is SSDI and How to File for Disability?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying disability. SSDI is funded through payroll taxes, and eligibility is based on your work history and medical condition.
To qualify, you must:
- Have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability.
- Have earned enough “work credits” through your employment history.
The number of work credits needed varies by age, but most applicants need 20 credits earned in the last 10 years.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
As you learn how to file for disability, it’s important to confirm whether you meet SSDI’s basic eligibility requirements. The SSA considers you disabled if:
- You cannot engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) because of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment.
- Your condition has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 consecutive months or result in death.
- You are unable to perform any of your previous work or adjust to other work.
You can check your eligibility and view your earned work credits by creating a Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation
The SSDI application requires detailed information about your medical history, employment, and finances. It’s helpful to gather this ahead of time to speed up the process.
You’ll need:
- Personal information (Social Security number, birth certificate, contact info)
- Employment history (employer names, addresses, dates worked, job duties)
- Medical records (diagnoses, treatment history, doctor contact info)
- List of current medications
- Recent tax returns and W-2 forms
The SSA may also request additional documentation throughout your application review.
Step 3: Consider Working with a Disability Advocate to Assist You with the Process
Many applicants choose to work with a disability advocate or disability attorney at this stage — before filing the initial application — to increase their chances of approval and reduce potential delays. An experienced advocate can help:
- Determine your eligibility
- Gather and organize medical evidence
- Complete and submit your application
- Communicate with the SSA on your behalf
- Prepare you for appeals if needed
While legal representation is not required, it’s especially helpful if your case involves multiple medical conditions, limited work history, or previous denials.
Berkley Disability specializes in guiding individuals through the SSDI process with care, expertise, and personalized support. From the initial consultation to final approval, our team ensures that your case is properly documented, your voice is heard, and your claim is positioned for the strongest possible outcome.
Step 4: Complete the Application
There are three ways to apply for SSDI:
- Online at ssa.gov/applyfordisability
- By phone at 1-800-772-1213
- In person at your local Social Security office (appointment recommended)
The application includes questions about your work history, medical conditions, and how your disability affects your ability to work. Be honest and thorough. Incomplete or inaccurate applications can delay the decision process.
Tip: Provide as much detail as possible about your daily limitations and how your condition prevents you from working. The more specific, the better.
Step 5: SSA Review & Decision
Once you submit your application, the SSA will:
- Verify your basic eligibility (work history and current employment status).
- Forward your case to Disability Determination Services (DDS) — a state agency that evaluates medical evidence and determines whether you meet SSA’s disability criteria.
DDS may:
- Request additional medical records from your doctors.
- Schedule a Consultative Examination (CE) with an independent physician if more information is needed.
- Contact you for further clarification.
Average processing time: 3-6 months, though it can vary by location and case complexity.
You’ll receive a decision letter in the mail once a determination is made.
Step 6: Understand Possible Outcomes
There are three potential outcomes at this stage:
- Approval: You’ll begin receiving monthly SSDI benefits, with a possible lump sum for back payments if applicable.
- Technical Denial: If you don’t meet non-medical criteria (like insufficient work credits).
- Medical Denial: If the SSA determines your condition doesn’t meet their disability requirements.
Important: Many initial applications are denied. Don’t get discouraged — you have the right to appeal.
Step 7: File an Appeal (If Needed)
If your application is denied, you have 60 days from the date of your denial letter to appeal. The appeals process has several stages:
1. Request for Reconsideration
- Submit a request for the SSA to review your case again.
- You can provide additional medical evidence.
- This stage typically takes 2-4 months.
2. Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
- If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing.
- You’ll testify before an ALJ, either in person, by video, or phone.
- An attorney or representative can help present your case.
- It may take 6-12 months to get a hearing date, depending on your location.
3. Appeals Council Review
- If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the SSA’s Appeals Council.
- They can uphold, reverse, or send your case back for another hearing.
4. Federal Court Review
- As a final option, you can file a lawsuit in federal court if the Appeals Council denies your claim.
Tip: Working with a disability attorney or advocate during the appeals process can significantly improve your chances of success.
Step 8: Receive Your Benefits
If your claim is approved, you’ll receive:
- Monthly SSDI payments based on your average lifetime earnings.
- Back pay starting from your established onset date of disability.
- Medicare eligibility after 24 months of receiving SSDI benefits.
Payment amounts vary, but in 2025 the average SSDI benefit is approximately $1,550 per month, with a maximum of around $3,800, depending on your earnings history.
Now that we’ve covered each step for how to file for disability, we hope that this transparency in the process can help you stay organized and prepared. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, Berley Disability is here to help. We offer free consultations and only collect fees if your claim is successful.
