Did you know that just over 1 in 4 of today’s 20 year-olds will become disabled before they retire? This statistic, provided by the Council for Disability Awareness, sheds light on the profoundness of disabilities in our society. As such, understanding how and where to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is crucial in order to protect you.

Statistics:

According to the Council for Disability Awareness,

  • Over 37 million Americans are classified as disabled; about 12% of the total population. More than 50% of those disabled Americans are in their working years, from 18-64.
  • 8 million disabled wage earners, over 5% of U.S. workers, were receiving Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits at the end of 2012.
  • In December of 2012, there were over 2.5 million disabled workers in their 20s, 30s, and 40s receiving SSDI benefits.

What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI):

Social Security Disability Insurance is a Social Security program that pays benefits directly to those who are disabled. This federally funded program is intended to provide a source of income for those who cannot provide for themselves due to a disability. If you are diagnosed with a disability, you should immediately apply for Social Security Disability Insurance.

How to Apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI):

  1. Visit the Social Security Website. The first thing to do is apply online. Once you visit the SSDI website, there will be a checklist with a list of requirements you will need to apply. For example, you will need information about you and information about your family members.
  2. Call the Social Security Toll-Free Number. If you have a disability, do not hesitate to call 1-800-772-1213, to make an appointment to file a claim or to set up an appointment for someone to take your claim over the telephone. Social Security provides accommodations for those who are deaf. If you are deaf or have a hard time hearing, call 1-800-325-0778.
  3. Have Your Information Ready. When completing an application or speaking on the phone with a representative, you will be asked to provide basic information. You should have your social security number, proof of age, medical history, medication names and dosages, and other vital information when going through this process.

If you or a loved one has a disability, please reach out to the Social Security website, or call the Social Security Disability Insurance office at 1-800-772-1213. Claims for SSDI typically take 5-16 months to process, having an experienced SSD attorney may help expedite the process. At the Brooks Law Group, our attorneys are ready to assist your needs.

Stephen K. Brooks
Author: Stephen K. Brooks

Steve was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. As was the practice for new doctors his father worked day and night during his medical residency at Charity Hospital there. Steve comes from a long line of doctors. His father, his grandfather, his great grandfather, even two uncles were all specialists and/or surgeons in their chosen medical specialties, including internal medicine specialist, obstetrics / gynecology, neurosurgery and general practice / surgery. His great-great grandfather was the Surgeon General of Ohio during the Civil War.