If you are applying for Social Security Disability benefits, you likely have a number of questions and concerns about what it will take to get your application approved. One of the first steps is getting through your initial SSD/SSI interview.
At Marasco & Nesselbush, LLP, we understand how stressful and confusing the application process can be, and how important benefits are to ensuring that you can provide for yourself and your loved ones. Based on our experience in helping thousands of people seek disability benefits in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut, our Social Security Disability attorneys have compiled some tips regarding the type of questions that you should be prepared to answer in your SSD and/or SSI interview.
Five Things to Bring to Your Social Security Interview
When filing a claim for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI often called SSD or Social Security Disability) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your eligibility will be determined by the Disability Determination Services (DDS), a unit within the Rhode Island Office of Rehabilitation Services. You will likely have an initial interview to complete the application at one of the Social Security Administration field offices.
The following are five things that you should bring to your appointment, depending on the type of benefits that you are seeking:
What To Bring To Your SDDIÂ Interview
For your Social Security Disability interview, SSA Disability Services requires these items:
- Personal information: Your name, address, and emergency contact information, the names and birthdates of your children, and dates of any marriages or divorces;
- Medical records: Any medical records you have that document your condition, as well as information about any medications you are taking;
- Information regarding workers’ compensation benefits: If you have received workers’ compensation due to your injuries, bring proof of any amounts paid as well as the date you were approved;
- Account information for payments: Make sure to bring your account number and routing number for the checking account or savings account where you wish your disability checks to be deposited; and
- Medical release form: Bring a signed medical release authorization form, which you can download and print from the SSA website.
What To Bring To Your SSI Interview
For your SSI interview, SSA supplemental security income requirements include:
- Social Security card and birth certificate: Your Social Security number entitles you to benefits, while your birth certificate proves both your age and citizenship status;
- Proof of income and resources: This includes pay stubs, financial award letters, and bank account statements;
- Proof of living arrangements: This may include your lease agreement or house title, as well as information about any utility bills you pay;
- Medical information: If you are filing as blind or disabled, you will need to supply medical records, a list of medications you are taking, and contact information for providers; and
- Work history: This includes the names of past employers and the dates you worked for them.
Questions to Expect During Your SSDI or SSI Interview
During the interview, you will be asked questions about your present situation. To prevent the denial of your SSD or SSI application, it is important to answer these questions honestly and completely. Your Social Security disability interview will include in-depth questions about your work history, with a heavy focus on your medical conditions, your providers, the types of treatments you have undergone, and any medications you are taking. For an SSI appointment, be prepared to answer in-depth questions about your financial situation, including any current or past sources of income and the expenses you currently pay, in addition to medical questions.
Let Us Assist You with Your Case
If you are applying for SSDI or SSI benefits or have been denied benefits, contact Marasco & Nesselbush, LLP today. Our experienced Social Security disability lawyers can help guide you through the process, answering your questions and addressing your concerns, while providing the aggressive legal representation to help you make the strongest case for disability benefits. We will stand up for you throughout the process. For more information on how our lawyers can help, you can request a copy of our free ebook, or schedule a free consultation with an attorney in one of our seven office locations in the Providence, Warwick, Woonsocket, Wakefield areas of Rhode Island.
