Proof of Identity and Citizenship

The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires proof that you are who you say you are and that you are a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen. The documents you will need include:

• Birth Certificate or Passport: These documents prove your age and citizenship status. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need to provide proof of lawful immigration status, such as a Green Card or work visa.
• Social Security Number: If you are applying for SSDI, you must provide your Social Security number (SSN). This will typically be listed on your Social Security card.

Medical Records

To qualify for SSDI, you must prove that you have a severe disability that prevents you from working. The SSA relies heavily on medical records to determine your eligibility. You should provide:

• Detailed Medical Records: These include your doctor’s notes, lab results, hospital records, and any other documentation that confirms your disability and supports your claim.
• Treatment History: Information about any medical treatments or surgeries you have undergone due to your condition.
• Specialist Reports: If you’ve seen specialists (e.g., pain management doctors, neurologists, orthopedic surgeons), include reports or letters from these providers about your condition.

Work History and Earnings Information
The SSA needs to determine if you have earned enough work credits to qualify for SSDI. To provide this information:

• Employment History: List the names of your employers, your job titles, and the dates of employment. The SSA may ask for details about your job duties, especially if your disability affects your ability to do work similar to past employment.
• W-2 Forms and Pay Stubs: These documents help establish your work history and earnings. If you are self-employed, you’ll need to provide tax returns and a detailed report of your earnings.
• Form SSA-3369 (Work History Report): This form asks for detailed information about your past jobs and the specific duties you performed.

Information About Your Disability and Limitations

The SSA needs to understand the severity of your condition and how it affects your ability to work. You should submit:

• A Written Statement of Your Disability: This statement should describe how your condition impacts your ability to work, your daily activities, and your limitations.
• Statements from Your Doctors: Letters from your treating physicians can be helpful in explaining how your medical condition affects your capacity to work. These should include specific details about your diagnosis, prognosis, treatment plan, and the severity of your limitations.

Financial Documents (If Applying for SSI)

If you are applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in addition to SSDI, you will need to provide financial information to prove that your income and resources are within the allowable limits. These documents include:

• Bank Statements: Provide your most recent bank statements to show your income and savings.
• Proof of Income: This includes pay stubs, tax returns, or any other documentation showing your income.

Authorization Forms

In order for the SSA to request your medical records and communicate with your doctors, you must sign authorization forms. These include:

• Form SSA-827 (Authorization for the Social Security Administration to Release Information)

Proof of Marital Status (If Applicable)

If you are married or divorced, the SSA will need to know about your marital history:

• Marriage Certificate: If you are married, you will need to provide a marriage certificate.
• Divorce Decree: If you have been divorced, the SSA will ask for a copy of your divorce decree.

Other Documents (If Applicable)

There may be additional documents required depending on your specific situation, such as:

• Military Service Records: If you served in the military, provide copies of your military discharge papers (Form DD-214).
• Workers’ Compensation Documents: If you are receiving workers’ compensation, the SSA will ask for documentation regarding your benefits.
• Vocational Rehabilitation Records: If you’ve participated in a vocational rehabilitation program, you may need to submit records from the program.

How to Submit Your Documents

Once you have all the necessary documents, you can submit them through various channels:

• Online: The most convenient way to apply for SSDI is through the SSA’s online portal at www.ssa.gov. You can upload most of the required documents directly through this platform.
• By Phone: You can apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. They will guide you through the application process and inform you of which documents to send.
• In Person: If you prefer, you can apply in person at your local Social Security office in New York. Use the SSA’s office locator on their website to find the nearest office.