Generally speaking, you may be entitled to receive Social Security Disability benefits if you have satisfied either a “recent work” or a “duration of work” test to show that you have worked long enough under Social Security guidelines. There is a formula utilized by Social Security to determine if you have enough work credits to be considered for disability benefits. Also, you must be disabled with a condition that is expected to last for at least one year and prevent you from working. You should apply for disability benefits as soon as you become disabled since it can take a long time to process an application. Generally speaking, the Social Security Administration will require the following information to process your application which can be done online or in person at one of the branch offices.
- Your social security number;
- Your birth or baptismal certificate;
- Names, addresses and telephone numbers of doctors and other providers who took care of you;
- Names and dosage of all present prescriptions taken;
- Medical records form your doctors and other providers; ∙ Laboratory and other test results;
- A summary of where you worked and the kind of work you did;
- A copy of your most recent W2 form, or if self-employed, your federal tax return for the past year.