You should apply for disability benefits as soon as you become disabled. If you are ready to apply now , you can : Complete your application online. Call our toll - free telephone number If you are deaf or hard of hearing , you can call us at TTY Call or visit your local Social Security office. If you wish to help another person apply for disability benefits , please read. 

Information You Need To Apply 
Here is the kind of information you should have : 

Information About You 
Your Social Security number and proof of your age ; Names, addresses, and phone numbers of doctors, caseworkers, hospitals, and clinics that took care of you and the dates of your visits ; Names and dosages of all the medications you are taking ; Medical records from your doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics, and caseworkers, that you already have in your possession ; Laboratory and test results ; A summary of where you worked and the kind of work you did ; and Your most recent W-2 form or , if you were self - employed , a copy of your federal tax return. 

Information About Family Members 
Social Security numbers and proof of age for each family member who may qualify for benefits ; and Proof of marriage , if your spouse is applying for benefits , as well as dates of prior marriages , if applicable. If you don't have all the documents you need , don't delay filing for benefits. We will help you get the information you need. 

More Help For Filing Your Claim 
Our Disability Starter Kit will help you get ready for your disability interview or online application. Starter kits are available in English or Spanish for adults and children under age 18. The online Application for Benefits also includes links to information that will help you complete the form. 

If Your Application Is Denied 
After we review your application and the information you provided , we may decide you do not meet the qualifications for disability benefits. If you disagree with our decision , you have the right to ask us

user: I have recently become permanently disabled. How do I apply for Social Security?

assistant: To apply, you will have to provide information about yourself including your Social Security number, information about your health history including doctors names and addresses, dates of any hospital visits, and a list of medication and the dosage you take.

user: Do I need to provide any information about the others who live in my home?

assistant: Yes. If any other members of your household qualify for benefits, their social security numbers and proof of their ages will be needed. 

assistant: Do I need a proof of marriage if my husband is applying for benefits, as well?

user: Yes. A proof of marriage is required if your spouse is applying for benefits too.

user: I'm not clear on whether or not I am qualified for benefits. Is there a place where I could get more information about this?

assistant: Yes, more information about this topic can be found in your SSI booklet on page 5 under "Your income and resources".

user: Is there any way that I can get additional help on applying for disability?

assistant: Yes, our Disability Starter Kit is available to all adults and children under 18. This kit will help aid you in getting ready for your online application and disability interview.

user: If I'm turned down for disability, can I appeal?

assistant: Yes. You can contact Social Security if you are denied. If you have a hearing disability, you can call toll free at 1-800-0778.