| Applying for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) | | | | It pays to be meticulous! |
| benefits such as Supplemental Security Income can | | | | Be Specific |
| be a very long and tedious process, and even then | | | | When applying for Social Security Income benefits |
| many individuals who go through this process end up | | | | less is definitely not more. Be very specific about |
| having their claims denied. If you have found it | | | | the nature of your disability and the limitations it has |
| necessary to apply for SSDI benefits here are some | | | | placed on you. Do not worry about providing |
| are some pointers which will hopefully make the | | | | ‘too much' information or sounding ‘stupid'. |
| process easier and improve your chances of being | | | | Give a thorough description of your situation. After |
| approved. | | | | all, the case workers do not live with you. Therefore, |
| Do Your Homework | | | | if you do not paint a clear picture of your disability |
| I know that you have heard over and over again | | | | for them there is no way for them to understand |
| that you should not delay when applying for Social | | | | exactly what you are faced with. |
| Security Income benefits. While this is true, it is also | | | | Be Proactive |
| beneficial to equip yourself with as much information | | | | Obtain documents long before they become needed. |
| as possible regarding the program and your chances | | | | Ensure that you obtain as much information and |
| of being approved. As such, do your homework. | | | | records as possible from your doctors, therapists, |
| Spend some time researching the program guidelines | | | | counselors, and all other relevant parties. Do not wait |
| and stipulations before rushing headlong into the | | | | to be asked for these documents; present them |
| application process. A day or two spent in research | | | | upfront. This will save much time and hassle, and |
| could save you a month or two during the application | | | | strengthen your case. |
| process. | | | | Copy! Copy! Copy! |
| Pay Attention to Detail | | | | Never submit documents for processing before |
| Do not rush when filling out forms. There is truth in | | | | making one, two or even three copies; preferably |
| the old adage that says ‘haste makes waste'. | | | | notarized copies. We all know that documents often |
| Take the time to complete the forms as accurately | | | | get lost in the shuffle and many times they can be |
| and neatly as possible. Ensure that you understand | | | | nigh impossible to recover. Arm yourself with enough |
| exactly how to complete each section and that all | | | | copies, as this will save you time and money, and |
| the requisite documents are completed and in order. | | | | reduce stress. |