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Frequently Asked Questions About Social Security Disability (SSD) Applications

Last updated on March 11, 2025

Applying for disability benefits is an intimidating process. The application is very detailed, and to make a strong case, you will need to provide documentation. It’s hard to get approved off the bat. In fact, according to the Social Security Administration, only 20% of initial applications are successful.

Below are answers to common questions about SSD applications. Please contact us at Shawn Taylor, PLLC, for answers to your questions. We are happy to help.

What information do I have to provide on the SSD application?

In addition to basic identifying information, you will have to provide detailed information about:

Your employment and earnings history
Your education and specialized training
Your job duties, past and present, and their physical requirements
Your medical history
Your medical testing, diagnoses and treatment
Your current impairments

There are many other components to the application, but these are the core parts.

What does it take to file a successful application?

Preparing a thorough and detailed application is essential for getting disability benefits. Gathering the right documentation – especially medical documentation – is very important. While there are no guarantees, you can increase your chances of a successful application by working with a lawyer.

Not many firms handle initial SSD applications. We do. Our firm can help you prepare a strong case from the outset, including gathering all the documentation you need to build a rock-solid case.

What if my application gets denied?

An initial denial doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. You will have an opportunity to appeal the denial. There are many steps in the appeals process, and it’s even more beneficial at this stage to have good legal representation. Our lawyer can prepare a strong appeal and represent you at the hearing.

What are common reasons that SSD applications get denied?

An SSD application denial can delay medical coverage and create financial difficulties for families. It is important to understand why an SSD application may be denied to appeal a decision. SSD applications can be denied for many reasons, including the following:

Lacking medical documentation: Sufficient medical information is needed to apply for SSD benefits. This information should show the severity of a disability and how the nature of the disability affects an applicant’s daily life. Failure to provide medical documentation can lead to a denial.
Failure to seek or follow treatment: A medical professional may prescribe a treatment for a disability, such as medication or surgery. If the applicant does not follow the prescribed treatment, their application may be denied.
Disability is not severe enough: The applicant must show that their disability severely affects their ability to work. Furthermore, they may need to show that their disability is expected to last for more than a year or life. If the disability is not severe enough, an application may be denied.
Incomplete application: An application may be denied if information about the applicant is missing. It is critical to list every condition that may contribute to a disability, even if it seems relatively minor.
Failure to attend consultative exams: If the Social Security Administration needs more information, the applicant may be sent to an independent doctor for an evaluation. Failing to attend these exams can lead to a denied claim.

Shawn Taylor, PLLC, can assist you in applying for disability benefits. If your application is denied, our attorneys can help you through the appeal process.

When can I apply for disability benefits?

You can file for disability benefits as soon as you become disabled or suffer an injury or condition that affects your ability to work. Note that you can apply for disability benefits while still working. However, you will need supporting documents to show that you are disabled. Medical documents can also show how a disability negatively affects your daily life.

How long does it take for an SSD application to get approved?

While your SSD application may be received just days after filling out your information, you may not receive a decision for six to eight months depending on the nature of your disability and the medical evidence provided. A denial means starting a lengthy appeals process that can last for more than a year, which is why it is so critical to get your application right the first time.

Have More Questions? Get Answers.

The disability claims process is notoriously complicated, and it all starts with the initial application. Get your case off on the right foot by getting help and answers from our experienced attorney. Based in Charleston, we handle disability cases throughout West Virginia, Kentucky and Ohio. We are available for in-person meetings as well as virtual consultations over Zoom or Teams. You can also attend court hearings virtually instead of travelling to the courthouse.

Get started with a free 30-minute consultation by calling 304-932-4619 or reaching out online.