Millions of Americans live with disabilities, which prevent them from achieving their full potential in life. They may need assistance with hearing, vision, thinking or memory, walking, taking care of themselves, and interacting with others.
Getting disability help is important because it can make a big difference in the quality of your life. It can also help you get the services you need to stay in your home or find employment and other meaningful activities in which to participate.
Social Security disability (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are programs that provide income if you become disabled and can no longer work because of your impairment. You can learn more about SSDI and SSI on Social Security’s Faces and Facts of Disability website.
Applying for disability benefits is a complicated process, and there are many steps you need to take. Getting help from professionals who know how to prepare your case can make the difference between being approved and denied.
The first step in applying for disability is gathering evidence of your condition. This includes a detailed description of your symptoms, how they affect your daily living and working activities, and your medical records.
Having your doctor, other medical professionals and family members involved in your application can help you prove your disability. They can also be a big help when you go to your local Social Security office for an interview.
A disability attorney or advocate can also help you navigate the process and ensure your claim is filed correctly. They understand how to maximize your chances of winning disability benefits and will connect you with a network of advocates nationwide.