To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, generally you must have worked and paid into Social Security for at least five years within the past ten years. According to Social Security rules, a claimant must meet specific medical requirements to qualify for Social Security disability benefits. These can include a developmental disability, long-term disability, a mental health diagnosis or any other limiting medical condition that limits a claimant’s ability to work.
To receive SSDI payments, the applicant must show evidence that their disabling condition will last for at least twelve months or result in death. Getting started on a disability claim can be difficult if you don’t know where to start. Below are some details of how to begin a disability claim.
Options To File
The SSA provides three ways to apply for disability: You can go online and fill out the application, visit your local Social Security office and fill it out with a Social Security representative, or do it over the phone.
- You can apply for SSDI online at www.ssa.gov/pgm/disability.htm.
- In-person. If you want to apply for SSI or SSDI in person, visit your local SSA field office. The employees there can help you with the paperwork and explain the forms, but they cannot give legal advice. Go to the SSA’s website to find your local field office in Minnesota.
- By telephone. You can apply for SSI or SSDI by phone. If your field office is too distant or if you have a disability preventing travel, this may be a better solution for you. You can call 800-772-1213 and apply by phone, or if you are deaf or hearing impaired, call 800-325-0778.
