Applying for Social Security disability benefits takes time and requires you to complete a direct interview with a representative from the Social Security Administration. That interview is a key element in deciding your application.
It is important to understand and prepare for the interview process when you apply for disability benefits.
Gather important details
Part of your interview will include discussing the details of your injury, including its effect on your ability to work and your daily life. When you answer questions, you need to have dates and specific details available. Gather your medical records, outstanding invoices and information about your lost work time so that you can offer any details necessary.
Take a breath before you answer each question
Do not answer any questions about your injury, treatment or prognosis if you are unclear about the question or cannot precisely remember the details. Remember that any answers you provide go on the record as part of the application consideration, so only give information that you know for certain is accurate. Do not be afraid to ask for clarification of a question when necessary before you answer.
Provide relevant information about how your life is different
If your injury or condition alters the way that you live your life, including preventing you from completing certain tasks independently, explain that during your interview. Make it clear how this has affected your life.
The Social Security disability interview is not an attempt to prove you are ineligible. The interview provides comprehensive supporting information beyond what you include in the application.
