Personal Information

You’ll need to provide basic personal information to verify your identity and eligibility:

• Social Security Number: Your SSN is essential for SSA records.
• Birth Certificate or Proof of Birth: A copy of your birth certificate or other official proof of age and identity.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Legal Residency: You must be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident to apply. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, permanent resident card (green card), or naturalization certificate.

Medical Records

One of the most critical aspects of your application is proving the severity of your medical condition. The SSA needs evidence that your disability prevents you from working. You will need to gather:

• Medical Records from Doctors, Hospitals, and Clinics: Provide copies of all medical records related to your condition. This includes doctor’s notes, treatment plans, surgery records, and diagnostic tests (e.g., X-rays, MRIs, lab results).
• List of Medications: Provide a list of any medications you are currently taking, including the dosage and frequency.
• Names and Contact Information of Medical Providers: Make sure to include details for all doctors, specialists, hospitals, clinics, and other medical professionals who have treated you for your condition.
• Doctor’s Opinion: A letter from your treating physician outlining how your medical condition affects your ability to work and perform daily activities can strengthen your claim.

Work History

For SSDI applicants, you’ll need to provide a detailed work history to show that you’ve worked and paid into Social Security for the required amount of time. This includes:

• Names of Employers: List all employers for the past 15 years.
• Dates of Employment: Include the specific dates you worked at each job.
• Job Duties: A description of the duties you performed at each job, which will help SSA determine if your disability affects your ability to do past work.
• W-2 Forms or Pay Stubs: Provide your W-2 forms for the past year or recent pay stubs, if available, to show proof of your earnings.

Financial Information

If you are applying for SSI, which is need-based, you’ll need to provide detailed financial information to demonstrate your income and assets. Required documents include:

• Income Documentation: Provide pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and other income-related documents for you and your spouse (if applicable).
• Asset Information: Provide details on any assets you have, such as savings accounts, property, or investments. SSI has strict limits on resources.

Proof of Marriage or Divorce (If Applicable)

If you are married or divorced, you will need to provide:

• Marriage Certificate: If you are married, provide a copy of your marriage certificate.
• Divorce Decree: If you are divorced, provide a copy of your divorce decree.

Social Security Card and Contact Information

If you don’t have your Social Security card on hand, you may need to request a replacement card. Additionally, provide your current contact information, including:

• Phone Number
• Mailing Address

Special Considerations (If Applicable)

If you have any unique circumstances, such as a disability that requires special consideration, you may need to provide additional documentation. For example:

• Veterans’ Disability Benefits: If you are receiving veterans’ disability benefits, include documentation of these benefits.
• Workers’ Compensation: If you’re receiving workers’ compensation or other disability benefits, include documentation about those benefits.

Other Supporting Documents

Depending on your condition, the SSA may request additional documents. These could include:

• Disability Reports: Completed disability reports, which provide more detailed information about your condition and how it impacts your ability to work.
• Functional Capacity Evaluation: If your healthcare provider has conducted a functional capacity evaluation, submit this document to show how your disability limits your ability to perform physical tasks.