Tip-Sheet:
Applying for Disability Benefits from
the Social Security Administration
Things to keep in mind before filling out the application:
- Keep a diary of daily activity
- Noting where your limitations are.
- Don’t understate your condition, but don’t exaggerate either.
- Note all medication changes.
- Medication name - dosage
- Your reaction to the medication (side affects)
- Keep a record of how much time you spend traveling to and from the doctor/clinic/therapist/etc.
- How many days a month you do this.
- How long you wait in the office to been seen.
- Make sure that all medical evidence about your condition(s) is in your medical file.
- You have the right to look at and get a copy of your medical record.
- Have your doctor do a complete examination and write a letter explaining your condition(s) in detail.
- Remember your primary doctor’s opinion may carry the most weight.
- Things to keep in mind when filling out the application:
- Don’t take the questions personally
- The folks who review your information are trying to make the best decision they can.
- When applying for benefits your information is supplied via paper.
- That means – if it is not written down – it does not exist.
- Be descriptive about your condition & how it affects your life – BE SPECIFIC & HONEST.
- Make sure that SSA receives information from all your healthcare providers, support systems, etc.
- It can be difficult to fill out the paperwork.
- Have someone with you to help make sure you are painting a complete picture.
- Have someone who can provide emotional support. It is not easy to write down one’s limitations, disability, etc.
Document Updated: July 2007
If you have questions about this policy, please contact the Database Resource Specialist.
