Understand the Eligibility Requirements for SSDI

Before you start the application process, it’s important to ensure that you meet the basic eligibility requirements for SSDI. To qualify, you must:

• Have a Sufficient Work History: You need to have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a required number of years, which is based on your age at the time you became disabled. The SSA considers your work history to determine if you’re eligible for SSDI benefits.
• Have a Severe Disability: Your disability must prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA), meaning you are unable to earn a certain amount of income due to your condition. Your disability must last for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death.

If you don’t have enough work history, you may still qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is based on financial need rather than work history.

Gather the Necessary Documentation

One of the most important steps in the application process is gathering the necessary documentation to support your claim. The SSA will require detailed evidence of your medical condition and how it prevents you from working.

Required Documents Include:

• Medical Records: Provide records from your doctor(s) showing the diagnosis and treatment for your condition. This includes test results, imaging studies (such as MRIs or X-rays), and any therapy or rehabilitation you’ve undergone.
• Work History: A detailed history of your past employment, including your job titles, the tasks you performed, and the dates you worked.
• Personal Information: Your Social Security number, birth certificate, and information about your family members if you’re applying for family benefits.
• Financial Information: If you’re applying for SSI, the SSA will need information about your household income and resources.

Submit Your Application

Once you have all the necessary documents, it’s time to submit your application. There are three ways to apply for SSDI in Wyoming:

• Online: The easiest and fastest way to apply is through the SSA’s online portal at www.ssa.gov. You can fill out your application, submit your documents, and track your application status online.
• By Phone: You can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to apply over the phone.
• In Person: If you prefer, you can visit a local SSA office to apply in person. There are SSA offices throughout Wyoming, and you can find the nearest one by visiting the SSA website.

Wait for Initial Review

After submitting your application, the SSA will begin reviewing your case. During this review, the SSA will:

• Review your medical evidence to determine if your condition meets their disability criteria.
• Verify your work history to ensure that you’ve paid enough into the Social Security system to qualify for benefits.
• Assess your functional limitations to determine if you’re unable to perform your previous work or any other work based on your skills and education.

The initial review typically takes 3 to 5 months. The SSA may ask for additional information or documents during this time, which could delay the process.

Receive a Decision

Once the SSA has reviewed your case, you’ll receive a decision. There are several possible outcomes:

• Approval: If your claim is approved, you will begin receiving benefits. However, it may take additional time to finalize the payment process.
• Denial: If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.

It’s important to note that around 60-70% of SSDI claims are denied at the initial application stage. This is why it’s crucial to submit thorough medical documentation and accurately complete your application.

Appeal a Denied Claim

If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. The appeals process can take additional time, but it gives you another chance to prove that you qualify for SSDI benefits.

The Appeal Process Includes:

• Request for Reconsideration: If your initial application is denied, you can request a reconsideration, where another SSA representative will review your case. This step usually takes 3 to 5 months.
• Request for a Hearing: If the reconsideration is also denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is where you can present additional evidence and explain your case in person. However, hearings can be delayed, and in Wyoming, it may take 12 to 18 months to schedule a hearing due to the SSA's backlog.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can appeal to the Appeals Council, which will review your case. If they deny your appeal, you can pursue your case in federal court.

Be Prepared for Delays

It’s important to be aware that SSDI applications and appeals can take time, especially if you have to go through multiple levels of the appeal process. On average, the entire process from application to approval can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months or even longer in some cases.

Consider Legal Help

While you can apply for SSDI benefits on your own, many applicants find it helpful to consult with a disability attorney. An attorney can assist you in gathering the right evidence, filling out your application correctly, and representing you during the appeal process if needed. Having legal representation can increase your chances of approval, especially if your case is complicated or if you’ve been denied initially.