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How to File Application

The Social Security Administration suggests that you should apply for disability as soon as you believe you are no longer able to work.
 

Once you have gathered the necessary information, you can apply for Social Security Disability (also known as SSDI or Title II benefits) and/or Supplemental Security Income (also known as SSI or Title XVI benefits) in one of three ways:

CONTACT US

The Law Office of Dennis Elfert and Gulf Coast Dissibility Center

204 Barrow St.

Houma, LA 70360

  • Local Field Office

The Social Security Administration has offices in most areas throughout the United States and its territories. You can find the one most local to you through their website locator here.

  • Telephone Call Application

The Social Security Administration can schedule a telephone appointment for your disability application. You can schedule this appointment by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213  from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. on Monday through Friday.

 

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call their toll-free "TTY" number, 

1-800-325-0778, between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Monday through Friday.

  • Online Application

The most convenient way to apply for Social Security Disability benefits is through the online application process. Advantages to the online application include:

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  •  Starting your application immediately without having to schedule and wait for an appointment.

  • Apply from anywhere on any computer/cell phone/tablet which
    has internet access.

  • Saving a partially completed application allows you to return to it when you are ready or have gathered additional required information.

  • Avoid time-consuming trips and wait time at a Social Security field office, or, lengthy wait times during a telephone conference.

If you want to file an online application, you must have an online mySocialSecurity account. If you do not already have an account, you can create one here. Once you have a mySocialSecurity account, you can begin the application process here.

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Completion of Application

Once your application is completed, it will be submitted to the Social Security Administration for review. Within two to three weeks (sometimes sooner), you will receive either by mail or email, a confirmation that your application has been received and is under review.

Review and Decision

During the review process, the Social Security Administration will appoint an examiner who will ultimately make the decision on your application. During the decision-making process, that examiner may reach out to you for additional information or request permission to obtain additional documentation from your employers and medical treating sources. The examiner may also set up an appointment for you to attend an examination by a doctor of their choosing to assess your physical or mental issues. The decision-making process may take anywhere from six weeks to several months.


At some point, you will receive a mailed letter from the Social Security Administration which will provide the decision whether your application for disability has been approved for payment or denied.

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