The SSDI Initial Application Process: Insights From Our SSDI Attorneys

As Social Security Disability lawyers who have represented countless clients in their pursuit of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, we have gathered a wealth of knowledge on the intricacies of the application process.

With a success rate that speaks for itself, we are here to guide clients through every step of the SSDI application process. Don’t leave your benefits to chance; call The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced SSDI lawyer, and let us seek the maximum disability benefits you and your family deserve. We also invite you to read through the following article to learn more about submitting an initial application for disability benefits. 

How Is The SSDI and SSI Application Process Initiated?

Initiating an SSDI or SSI application requires submitting details about education, medical conditions, treatments, and a 15-year work history. These details can be captured on the following forms:

• SSA-16-BK (Exclusive to SSDI, it’s the primary Application for Disability Insurance Benefits)
• SSA-8000-BK (For those seeking SSI, this is the main application form)
• SSA-3368-BK (This is the Adult Disability Report detailing relevant medical conditions)
• SSA-827-BK (Authorization form allowing the Social Security Administration access to personal information)
• SSA-3369-BK (Work History Report)
• SSA-3373-BK (Function Report)

If you need assistance filing an initial disability application, we invite you to call our office to schedule a free consultation. As SSDI attorneys with decades of legal experience, we can help compile documentation and complete all required forms, ensuring the best chances of securing disability benefits from the outset. 

How Long Does An Initial SSDI Application Review Take?

The initial disability application for SSDI and SSI usually sees a decision within 3 to 6 months. However, it can sometimes take up to a year or longer, especially if an appeal must be pursued to secure benefits. As such, it is advisable to secure the representation of a top disability lawyer as soon as possible to help avoid any unnecessary delays. 

What Information Do I Need for My SSDI Application?

To pursue SSDI benefits, applicants must provide details about:

• Citizenship, birth, and residency;
• Education;
• Medical conditions;
• Hospitals, physicians, and clinics;
• Treatments received;
• Personal information (e.g., children, marital status, etc.);
• Financial information (e.g., bank accounts, stocks, life insurance, retirement accounts, etc.); and
• Work history (for the 15 years prior to the disability). 

Can I Submit My SSDI Application Online?

Yes, the SSA allows online submissions for SSDI. However, if an individual is applying for SSI, he or she will need to fill out a form or undergo an interview with the SSA. 

What Are the Chances That An Initial SSDI Application Will Be Denied?

Roughly 70% of initial applications are denied. It’s a daunting figure, but with thorough preparation and experienced disability representation, the chances for success can significantly improve. This is where the guidance from our dedicated and tenacious Social Security disability attorneys can help – call us now to schedule a free disability consultation. 

What Can I Do If My SSI or SSDI Application Is Denied?

It is critical not to be discouraged if an initial SSDI or SSI application is denied, as the majority of initial applications are denied, even when individuals have qualifying disabilities.

Social Security offers an appeals process involving steps like reconsideration and a hearing. If you need assistance appealing an SSDI benefit denial, call our offices today to schedule a complimentary consultation to learn more about your legal rights and options. 

How Can The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt Assist Me?

One of the primary ways we assist our clients is by managing the entire application process on their behalf. We take care of forms, filings, and paperwork, helping to avoid common pitfalls that often result in denials.

All our clients typically need to do is consult with us and then sign the finalized documents. Thereafter, the SSA might ask for more forms related to qualification; we can assist in gathering and submitting requested information and documentation. 

How Can I Improve My Chances of Having My Initial Disability Application Approved?

There are several steps you can take, whether you’re applying on your own or with help from one of the best disability application lawyers:

• Ensure your medical records are comprehensive and updated
• Be consistent with your information across all documents
• Engage in regular medical check-ups and treatments
• Document all work history and limitations accurately

While it’s entirely possible to apply for SSDI benefits independently, it may not be the wisest course of action. Statistics show that nearly three-fourths of initial applications are rejected. Rather than navigating this intricate process alone, it’s far more prudent to consult an experienced disability attorney.

With deep insights into the common pitfalls that lead to denials, we have a clear understanding of the SSA’s expectations. We present our clients’ cases in a way that aligns with their criteria, greatly enhancing the probability of a favorable SSDI determination.

Schedule A Free Consultation With An Experienced SSDI Attorney Today!

At The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt, our primary goal is to provide disabled individuals with the guidance and representation they need to expeditiously navigate the SSDI and SSI application process. While the journey might seem challenging, with our guidance, applicants can significantly increase their chances of securing maximum disability benefits.

In applying for Social Security Disability benefits, the general rule is “the earlier, the better.”  If you or a loved one are considering filing for disability, we urge you to call our office to schedule a free consultation as soon as possible.  Compiling the necessary documentation to substantiate a disability claim can take some time, and the sooner you get started, the sooner you may be able to obtain benefits.  We can help evaluate the strength of your case and assist with the initial application.

If you were denied benefits, we would love to help.  We can improve the likelihood of approval and may be able to move your case more quickly through the system, especially if your financial situation is dire or if your condition is terminal.

Call Today to Schedule a Free SSDI Consultation