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How-to · Benefits & money

Apply for Social Security disability (SSDI)

SSDI pays monthly benefits to people whose disability stops or limits their ability to work. You can apply online without an office visit.

Steps

4 steps
  1. Print the checklistThe Adult Disability Checklist helps you gather what the application asks for.
  2. Complete the applicationApply online at any time. No office visit or appointment needed.
  3. Fill out the medical releaseThe Medical Release Form is part of applying online.
  4. Don't wait for every documentSocial Security will help you get the ones you're missing.

Bring

  • Doctors, clinics and treatment dates
  • Your medicines and who prescribed them
  • Jobs from the last 5 years
  • Birth certificate or proof of birth
  • Last year's W-2 or tax return
You can't use the online application if you were denied disability in the last 60 days.

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