To apply for disability benefits, a person who becomes ill or injured and cannot work should follow these steps:
See a doctor and document your medical condition as soon as possible.
Submit an application to the Social Security office. There are many factors to consider when filing a claim. You must be unable to work for at least 12 consecutive months due to your disability. That year can have already passed or still be in progress. To file, you can call, mail, or visit your local government office.
Disability Determination Services (DDS) will receive your application. The DDS will determine your eligibility based on your medical information and your application. A physical examination by experts may be required if they need more medical information.
DDS will notify you in writing when it makes a decision. An explanation of the decision will be in the notice.