Steps to Apply for Disability in Pennsylvania

Step 1: Understand the Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for disability benefits in Pennsylvania, you must meet the following criteria:

• For SSDI: You must have worked and paid into Social Security for a certain number of years. The amount of work required depends on your age when you became disabled.
• For SSI: This program is based on financial need and does not require a work history. It’s available to low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or over the age of 65.

Both programs require proof that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months or will result in death. In addition, the SSA uses a Listing of Impairments to determine if your condition qualifies for benefits based on its severity.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation

In Pennsylvania, as with all states, you need comprehensive medical evidence to support your claim for disability benefits. This includes:

• Medical Records: Obtain records from your doctor, specialists, hospitals, and clinics that show your diagnosis, treatment history, and ongoing care.
• Work History: If applying for SSDI, provide a detailed work history, including job titles, dates of employment, and a description of your duties.
• Financial Information: For SSI, you’ll need to provide proof of your income, assets, and any financial assistance you receive.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Applications for disability benefits in Pennsylvania can be filed online through the SSA’s website, by phone, or at your local SSA office. Be sure to complete all forms accurately, providing the SSA with complete and honest information about your medical condition, work history, and financial status.

• Online Application: The fastest method is to apply online through the SSA’s portal at www.ssa.gov.
• Phone Application: You can apply by calling the SSA’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213.
• In-Person Application: You can also apply at your local SSA office in Pennsylvania. However, the process may take longer than online applications.

Step 4: Meet Pennsylvania’s Disability Criteria

The SSA evaluates disability claims based on a five-step process that includes:

• Step 1: Are you working and earning more than a certain amount? If so, you may not qualify for benefits.
• Step 2: Is your condition severe enough to interfere with basic work tasks? You must have a medically documented condition that significantly limits your ability to work.
• Step 3: Does your condition match or equal one of the SSA’s listed impairments? If so, you may be presumed to be disabled.
• Step 4: Can you do the work you did before? The SSA will check if you’re able to perform your past job.
• Step 5: Can you perform other types of work? If you can’t do your past work, the SSA will consider whether you can do any other type of work based on your age, skills, education, and work experience.

Step 5: Follow Up on Your Application

Once your application is submitted, you’ll want to track its progress. Create an online SSA account to monitor the status of your application, respond to requests for additional information, and follow up if necessary. If your application is delayed or denied, you have the right to appeal.

Step 6: Be Prepared for a Denial

It’s not uncommon for disability claims to be denied initially. If your claim is denied, you can request reconsideration or appeal the decision by requesting a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Be sure to gather new medical evidence or any other documentation that supports your case.