You can apply for benefits by calling our national toll-free service at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or by visiting your local Social Security office. An appointment is not required, but if you call ahead and schedule one, it may reduce the time you spend waiting to apply. You can help by being ready to: We may ask you to provide documents to determine if a child is eligible for benefits:
If you are applying for disability benefits for an adult child disabled before age 22, please complete these two forms that describe your child’s medical condition and authorize disclosure of information to us:
We may also ask you to provide documents to determine if you may be eligible for benefits for having the child in your care:
Important We accept photocopies of W-2 forms, self-employment tax returns or medical documents but we must see the original of most other documents, such as your birth certificate. We will return the documents to you. Do not delay applying for benefits because you do not have all the documents. We will help you get them. What we will ask you
If the worker is deceased, we will also ask you:
Depending on the information you provide, we may need to ask other questions. Note You also should have with you your checkbook or other papers that show your account number at a bank, credit union or other financial institution so you can sign up for Direct Deposit, and avoid worries about lost or stolen checks and mail delays. What's the quickest you can get disability?All SSDI claims are subject to a waiting period for benefits. The earliest payments can start is five months from the date that Social Security determines your disability began, based on the medical evidence you provide.
What is considered to be a disability?The law defines disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.
What qualifies you for disability in Florida?An applicant typically must have earned 40 credits to be SSDI eligible, 20 of which were earned during the most recent 10 years. You must also show a documented disabling condition that meets the SSA's strict definition of total disability.
Is anxiety a disability?Anxiety disorders like OCD, panic disorders, phobias, or PTSD are considered a disability. Therefore, they can qualify for Social Security disability benefits. Individuals must prove that it is so debilitating that it prevents them from working.
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