While we've all heard about how long this process may take, getting a disability claim starts with filing your request. According to The U.S. Social Security Administration, supplemental security income payments were a source of income for about 14% of disabled people in 2020. If you have a disability and are looking for disability payments, here's what you need to know about filing.

Filing a Disability Claim

Filing for disability payments can be done in one of several ways. You may call the toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213, visit a local Social Security office, or complete the application online. If you are deaf, the number for teletypewriters is 1-800-325-0778. Filing in person will require an appointment.

You may also get a disability lawyer to take care of it for you. Disability lawyers can also step in later in the process, but it's best to have them from the beginning. Filing a claim will require you to have certain documentation available to answer their questions, and it will act as support for your claim of disability. By having good solid records at your disposal, the filing process will be much more efficient.

What You Need for Your Claim

There are several pieces of information you'll need to have to start your claim for disability. Some of these may include the following:

• Social security card or number
  
• Proof of age and identity
  
• Medication brand names and dosages
  
• Contact information for all your doctors, hospitals, and caseworkers
  
• Dates of your medical visits
  
• Medical records, test results, and lab results
  
• Employment history
  
• Tax return information or your most recent W2
  

After getting these documents, you're able to go through the process without having to stop and start it as you realize you need more information. These documents should be thorough and packed with dates, times, names, addresses, and numbers, which will ensure that you have the best case to put forward.

The key is to be diligent. Having all the forms in advance can help speed up the filing process. Disability lawyers can go over what you have and can call and request additional documentation should you need it. They'll help you present the best possible case from the very beginning. Contact Randolph Baltz, Attorney at Law today to get help with your claim. We look forward to working with you.