Step 1: Meet SSDI Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for SSDI. You must meet the following requirements:

• Work History: To qualify for SSDI, you need to have worked and earned enough work credits. Typically, you need to have worked for at least 5 of the last 10 years (depending on your age) to be eligible for SSDI.
• Disability: You must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. The SSA evaluates your medical condition based on its severity and impact on your ability to perform work-related tasks.

If you meet both the work history and medical criteria, you may be eligible to apply for SSDI benefits.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Before starting the application process, make sure you have all the necessary documentation. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Personal Information: Your Social Security number, birth certificate, and proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency.
• Medical Records: Detailed records from your healthcare providers, including doctor’s notes, hospital records, test results, and prescriptions that outline your condition and how it affects your ability to work.
• Work History: A list of your previous jobs and employment records, including the names and addresses of employers and dates of employment.
• Bank Information: If applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you’ll need to provide details about your income and resources, including bank statements.

Step 3: Apply Online for SSDI

The easiest and most convenient way to apply for SSDI in Georgia is online through the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) website. Here’s how to apply:

• Visit the SSA Website: Go to the official Social Security website at www.ssa.gov and navigate to the “Disability Benefits” section.
• Create an Account: If you don’t already have one, create an account on the SSA website to begin your SSDI application.
• Complete the Application: Carefully fill out the online application, providing all the required information about your personal details, medical condition, and work history. Double-check for accuracy before submitting.
• Submit the Application: Once you’ve completed the online application, submit it for review. You will receive a confirmation from the SSA once they have received your application.

Step 4: Apply In Person or Over the Phone

If you prefer to apply in person or over the phone, you can do so by following these options:

• Visit a Local SSA Office: In Georgia, you can apply in person at your local Social Security office. Use the SSA office locator on the SSA website to find the nearest office.
• Call the SSA: You can apply over the phone by calling the SSA’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will assist you in completing the application over the phone.

Step 5: Wait for a Decision

After submitting your application, the SSA will review your case. On average, the SSA takes 3 to 5 months to process and decide on an SSDI application. During this time, the SSA may request additional information or medical records to support your claim.

• If your application is approved, you will begin receiving your SSDI benefits.
• If your application is denied, you will receive a notification explaining the reason for the denial. You have the right to appeal the decision if you disagree with the outcome.

Step 6: How to Appeal a Denied SSDI Claim in Georgia

If your SSDI claim is denied, you can follow the appeals process to challenge the decision. The steps in the appeals process include:

• Request Reconsideration: This is the first step in the appeals process. You will submit additional evidence and explain why you believe your claim should be approved. This typically takes about 3 to 4 months.
• Request a Hearing: If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is an opportunity for you to present your case in person. The waiting time for a hearing can range from 12 to 18 months, depending on the caseload of your local hearing office.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review from the Appeals Council, which can take an additional 12 to 18 months.

Step 7: Expedited Processing for Severe Conditions

In certain situations, your SSDI application may be expedited if you have a severe medical condition. Some conditions that may qualify for Compassionate Allowances (such as certain cancers or terminal illnesses) can result in faster processing of your application.

• Compassionate Allowances: If your condition meets SSA’s criteria for Compassionate Allowances, your claim can be processed within a matter of weeks.