Helping with a Disability Claim? Start Here

5 Steps to Make Applying for Disability Benefits Easier

If someone you know is living with a serious medical condition, they may need help applying for Social Security Disability benefits. The good news is that you can assist them through the online process. These five steps will help make the experience more manageable.

Step 1: Learn About the Programs

Start by reviewing the People Helping Others page on SSA.gov. It explains the two main programs:

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is based on a person’s work history.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for those with limited income and resources, including people who are blind, disabled, or over 65.

Step 2: Help Them Sign in to Their SSA Account

Encourage the person you’re helping to log into their my Social Security account. From there, they can check their eligibility for SSDI and see their estimated benefit amount.

You can help them set up the account, but they must sign in themselves.

Step 3: Use the Disability Starter Kit

Download the Disability Starter Kit to get a checklist and worksheet that will help gather the information needed for the application.

Step 4: Watch the How-To Videos

The SSA’s video series explains how to complete a third-party application and the required forms. These short videos can help you feel more confident about the process.

Step 5: Submit the Online Application

Adults can apply for SSDI, SSI, or both at once using the SSA online application. The application has a start-and-stop feature, so you can complete it over time.

When applying, you’ll need to answer one key question:

If you’re with the person while helping, choose “I am applying for myself.”
If you’re helping from a distance, choose “I am helping someone who is not with me.”

If the second option is selected, SSA will mail the application and medical release form (SSA-827) to the applicant. These signed forms must be returned before SSA can move forward.

What Happens Next

Once submitted, the SSA reviews the application to ensure it meets basic requirements. Then, it’s forwarded to the State Disability Determination Services for a decision.

This part of the process typically takes 6 to 8 months. You can help the person track their application status online.

If the application is denied, you can also help them file an appeal.

Know someone who might be helping a loved one through the disability application process? Share these steps with them to make the journey easier.

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