September 1, 2022

More often than not, making the decision to apply for SSD or SSI is a big step and isn’t always easy. However, if your health conditions and/or limitations are hindering your ability to perform normal life activities and your doctor confirms your disability, you have the option of applying for benefits.

What many people may not realize, is that applying for benefits can be a very long process. From the time the application is submitted, to time your application is approved, denied, or moved through the next stage or stages of appeals, it’s common for the process to take a minimum of 1-3 years. As you prepare for the process, there are a few things to keep in mind.

It’s important to make sure everything is documented and organized. When filling out an application for SSD or SSI, Social Security will ask for very detailed information. It’s best to have all of that information ready for when you apply. The information you may be asked about includes:

  • Dates of all previous and current medical appointments
  • Names, addresses, and specialties of the health care professionals you’ve seen
  • Your symptoms and how they limit daily activities
  • Dates of when your symptoms started to occur and for how long
  • Dates and years of previous employment and the types of jobs you’ve held
  • Medications previously and currently prescribed
  • Therapies, examinations, and imaging you’ve had done, along with dates and results
  • Activities you’re currently able to take part in and how often
  • If you’re able to take care of yourself or if you need assistance
  • Information about your residence, how long you’ve lived there, and if you live alone or with others
  • Cost of rent and other living expenses

This is not an exhaustive list, but it is important to be as prepared as possible, and as organized as possible, when you’re ready to fill out your application. Please know, this can be an overwhelming process, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Zea Proukou, we have a team of caring and experienced legal professionals who are dedicated to helping you through the process from start to finish.

If you have any questions or would like to know more about how we can assist you, we invite you to contact us at our Rochester office by calling 585-423-9444 or our Canandaigua office by calling 315-853-9444. You may also email us through our secure contact page.