Personal Identification and Contact Information

You’ll need to provide personal details to verify your identity and ensure all information is correctly linked to your case:

• Social Security Number (SSN): Your SSN will help the attorney or representative verify your identity and pull up your records.
• Birth Certificate: A copy of your birth certificate to confirm your age.
• Driver’s License or State ID: An additional form of identification to verify your identity.
• Contact Information: Make sure to bring your current address, phone number, and email address so they can easily reach you.

Medical Records and Documentation

Your medical history is a critical part of your disability claim. The more documentation you can provide, the stronger your case will be:

• Doctor’s Notes and Reports: Bring any recent records from your primary care physician and specialists. This includes notes, test results, diagnoses, and any treatment plans related to your disability.
• Hospital Records: If you’ve had surgeries, hospital stays, or emergency room visits, include these records to show the extent of your condition.
• Prescription Medications: A list of any medications you’re currently taking and prescriptions you’ve received, along with dosages and durations.
• Treatment History: Any physical therapy, mental health counseling, or other treatments you’ve undergone related to your disability.
• Imaging Results: Include copies of X-rays, MRIs, or other imaging reports that support your disability claim.

Employment and Work History

To apply for Social Security Disability, the SSA will need a detailed history of your work life. Be prepared to provide:

• Employment Records: Provide the names and addresses of past employers, as well as the dates you worked for them.
• Detailed Job Descriptions: A list of your job duties, which helps the SSD attorney assess whether your disability affects your ability to perform past job tasks.
• Recent Pay Stubs or Tax Returns: If available, bring recent pay stubs to show your earnings or tax returns to prove your work history.

Financial Documents

The SSA may require financial documentation if you’re applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is based on financial need. Be prepared to show:

• Bank Statements: Recent bank statements, including checking and savings accounts.
• Income and Assets: Any documentation showing your income sources, such as paychecks, pensions, or government assistance.
• Tax Returns: Recent federal and state tax returns, especially if you’ve filed for SSI.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Legal Residency

You must be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident to qualify for SSD benefits. Provide documentation to confirm your status:

• U.S. Birth Certificate or Naturalization Papers: If you’re a U.S. citizen.
• Green Card or Immigration Papers: If you’re a legal resident.

Family Information (if applicable)

In some cases, the SSA may need information about your family, especially if you are claiming disability on behalf of a minor child or if your family’s financial situation impacts your eligibility for SSI. Be sure to bring:

• Marriage Certificate: If applying as a spouse or if your spouse’s income is relevant to the claim.
• Children’s Birth Certificates: If children are involved in the claim.
• Adoption or Guardianship Papers: If you’re applying for children in your care.

Disability Benefits and Workers’ Compensation (if applicable)

If you are already receiving other benefits or have been involved in a workers' compensation claim, you’ll need to bring:

• Workers’ Compensation Records: Documents related to any workers' compensation claims or settlements.
• Other Disability Benefits: If you are receiving disability benefits from another source (e.g., long-term disability insurance, private insurance), bring documentation of those payments.

List of Questions and Concerns

Finally, prepare a list of questions and concerns you have about the SSD application process. This will help you make the most of your consultation and ensure that you understand the next steps in your case.