Florida Social Security Disability attorney John Tucker guides you through how to apply for Social Security Disability benefits and offers tips to avoid being denied by the Social Security Administration.
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Option 1: Go to the Local Social Security Office
Your first option is to go to your local Social Security Administration ("SSA") office and tell them you want to apply for Social Security Disability. If you are not sure where your local Social Security office is, see the link at the bottom of this article for their office locator. Read the "5 TIPS" section below for some advice on what to do when you make your application. If you are not able to go to an SSA office or simply don't want to wait in line, look at Options 2 or 3 below.
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Option 2: Call the Social Security Administration
If you don't want to visit a Social Security office, you can call Social Security toll free at (800) 772-1213. Typically, they will schedule a time when someone can call you back to take your application. Read the "5 TIPS" section below for some advice on what to do when you make your application. If you don't want to wait on hold at SSA's 800 number, look at Option 3 below.
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Option 3: Go On-Line to Social Security's Website
If you don't want to go to a Social Security office and you don't want to wait on hold calling Social Security's 800 phone number, then apply online at http://www.ssa.gov/applyfordisability/adult.htm (you can click on the link at the bottom of this page). There, you will have to fill out an Application and another form called Adult Disability and Work History Report. You can start and stop your application, and do it over a few days. This is by far the most flexible option. Read the "5 TIPS" section below for some advice on what to do when you make your application.
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Follow the 5 Tips below to Increase Your Chances of Winning
These tips will not guarantee that you win your claim, but they will help you make your case better.
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TIP 1: Explain How Your Illness or Injury Impacts Your Abilities
Tell Social Security about how limited you are with sitting, standing, walking, using your arms, fingering, feeling, concentrating, interacting with others, etc. Be specific and use examples of how you are limited.
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