What to Expect During the Social Security Disability Application Process
💼 How Is the Social Security Disability Application Process: Step-by-Step Tips from the Advocates at Binder & Binder®
If you're unable to work due to a medical condition, applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits may be one of the most important steps you take. But the application process isn't easy—mistakes, missing records, or incomplete forms can cause unnecessary delays or even denial.
At Binder & Binder®, we help people across the country file successful disability claims every day. In this guide, we walk you through how to properly complete two of the most important forms in the disability claims process:
Form SSA-16 (Disability Application)
Form SSA-3368 (Adult Disability Report)
Whether you're just getting started or you've already applied, these tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and put your best foot forward.
Before You Begin: Key Things to Know
SSD vs. SSI – What’s the Difference?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you've paid into the system. You must have earned sufficient work credits to be eligible for SSDI benefits.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI), on the other hand, is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and assets—regardless of work history or paid Social Security taxes. SSI benefits can provide crucial financial support for those who qualify. Some applicants with disabilities may qualify for both disability programs.
Where and How to Apply
You can apply online through the Social Security Administration website, by phone, or in person at your local SSA office. The SSA website allows you to complete your initial application and check your application status. For best results, we recommend speaking with us first. We'll make sure your disability application is complete, accurate, and properly supported.
How Long Does SSD Take?
The initial SSD claim timeline typically takes 4–6 months, but delays are common, especially depending on your state and the complexity of your case. Disability Determination Services reviews each claim thoroughly to determine if applicants meet the SSA's definition of disability.
Your Odds of Approval
Only about 38 % of initial claims are approved. Working with experienced disability advocates can dramatically improve your chances of receiving benefits. If your initial application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.
Commonly Approved Conditions: Do You Qualify?
SSA doesn’t approve disability benefits based on diagnosis alone—what matters is how your medical conditions limit your ability to perform substantial gainful activity. These examples often qualify when well-documented:
Musculoskeletal
Herniated discs
Severe arthritis
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Mental Health
Major depression
Bipolar disorder
PTSD
Neurological
Multiple sclerosis
Parkinson’s disease
Epilepsy with seizures
Peripheral neuropathy
Cardiovascular
Congestive heart failure
Chronic arrhythmias
Coronary artery disease
Other Conditions
Cancer (in treatment or advanced)
Organ transplants
Fibromyalgia
Lupus
IBS and similar autoimmune disorders
Low vision
👉 Not sure if your condition qualifies? Contact us at binderbinder.com for a personalized assessment.
What to Gather Before Filling Out the Forms
Save yourself time and frustration in the application process by preparing the following:
Personal Information
Social Security number and ID
Contact info
Marital/family status
Medical Records
Diagnoses and providers’ names
Tests, scans, lab results
Full medication list
Dates of treatment and hospitalizations
Employment Info
Jobs from the past 5 years
Physical/mental demands of each job
W-2s, tax returns
Workers’ comp info (if applicable)
Filling Out the Disability Forms: Step-by-Step Tips
1. Read Every Instruction: Many questions are not intuitive. Take your time—or let us help.
2. Double-Check Personal Details: Ensure your name, SSN, and address are accurate to avoid delays.
3. Be Thorough with Your Work History: SSA needs to know what kind of work you’ve done and whether you can still do it. Describe each job, how long you worked, and the physical/mental demands involved (lifting, standing, focus, etc.).
4. Describe Conditions with Specifics: Don’t say “bad knees.” Instead: “Diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis in both knees, resulting in limited range of motion and chronic pain.”
5. List All Providers and Medications: SSA looks for comprehensive care within one year of when you stopped working.
6. Dates Must Be Consistent: Onset date = when your condition first stopped you from working full-time. All dates should align with your medical records.
7. Final Review = Less Delay: Confirm everything is complete. Blank fields and inconsistencies can cause red flags.
Don’t Overlook the Function Report (SSA-3373)
SSA will likely send you a Function Report after your initial application. This form is critical—it tells SSA how your condition impacts your daily life.
Be clear about your limitations, for example:
How long do daily tasks take
Specific limitations: “I can stand 10 minutes before my legs go numb”
Devices used: cane, walker, shower chair
Help from others: “My daughter helps me dress on bad days”
Differences between “good days” and “bad days”
✅ Example:
“I fold laundry for 15 minutes before my hands cramp. I can’t carry the basket or reach into the dryer.”
Pro Tips for a Stronger SSD Application
✔ Keep Medical Records Current: Outdated records can hurt your case. Binder & Binder will help collect the right documentation.
✔ Use SSA-Recognized Language: Match your doctor’s terminology. Example: “bipolar I disorder,” not “mood swings.”
✔ Tell Your Story: A short personal statement can add emotional clarity to the forms.
✔ Be Precise: Instead of “trouble walking,” explain how your medical issues impact you. For example, “I walk one block and then must stop to rest for five minutes.”
✔ Get Strong Medical Support: We work with your doctors to obtain the statements SSA needs.
What Happens After You File?
After you submit your disability application, SSA will confirm receipt and may contact you or your doctors for additional information. While 4–6 months is the average wait for disability determination, some decisions take longer. You can check your application status online through the SSA website.
Remember, there's a five-month waiting period before SSDI benefits begin, even after approval.
⏳ If you applied on your own and feel stuck—don't wait. We can still help fix issues, submit new evidence, and even handle your appeal if needed.
Let Binder & Binder® Help You Get the Benefits You Deserve
We’ve helped thousands of people nationwide win SSD benefits—and we’re ready to help you. From completing the application to representing you on appeal, we know what it takes to build a strong case.
📞 Schedule your free consultation today
🖥️ Visit us at binderbinder.com
📧 Or email us directly: info@binderandbinder.com
You don’t have to do this alone. Let us fight for the benefits you’ve earned.