Direct Application

• 1). Go to SSA.gov. Click on the "Disability Benefits" button. On the next screen, click on "Apply Online for Disability Benefits."
  
  
• 2). Fill out the initial contact and identification information. Proceed to the next screen.
  
  
• 3). Save the confirmation number. Use this number if you need to finish the rest of the application later or change anything you have already submitted. This will also be the means of checking your application status or confirming that you have in fact applied for benefits.
  
  
• 4). Fill out the rest of the application. Do not leave out information, even if it is difficult for you to find. Inconsistencies and missing information will hurt your claim. Write down any items that you do not know, and do not finish the entire application until you can get them.
  
  
• 5). Keep all phone interview and doctor appointments that the Social Security Administration sets for you.
  
  

Application Through an Attorney

• 1). Choose a law firm to help you with your application, and contact them. Most civil or disability attorneys can help you, but some law firms specialize in filing for Social Security disability benefits.
  
  
• 2). Gather all of the information the law firm asks for and submit it to them. Give them the start and stop dates, month and year, for every job you have held in the past 15 years, as well as the first and last time you have visited each of your doctors or hospitals for treatment related to your disabilities.
  
  
• 3). Continue to see doctors regularly. The more medical history you have for your disabilities, the stronger your claim will be. If you have trouble paying for doctors, visit the United Way website or dial 211 on your telephone to find free and low-cost clinics in your area.