How to File Your Application

There is no charge to apply for Social Security Disability.  You can start the application process online, by  phone, or in person.  Here’s what you need to know:

Apply for Disability Online

Currently we are recommending to our clients that they file their applications online.  Social Security has gone to a paperless filing process and your online application will be processed faster, with less chance of falling through the cracks than the other options.  When you apply online you can also print out your application as you proceed, which will give you proof that you did, indeed, file.

You can apply online at https://www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability/

Apply by Phone or in Person

If you are not comfortable using a computer, or if the online system won’t accept your application, you can also apply by phone or in person at a local Social Security office.  To apply by phone, call Social Security, toll-free, at 800-772-1213.

You can also apply in person at your local Social Security office.

When you apply, you should tell the Social Security employee that you want to apply for both Disability and SSI.

When the Social Security employee asks you when you became disabled, you should give the earliest possible date that you think you became unable to work (you can always amend your “onset date”) later.  Most Social Security Attorneys have a client intake form that you can use to organize your case information for your application.

More information

Why you should file your disability claim sooner rather than later