Determine Which Disability Program You Qualify For

Before applying, it’s important to determine which program you are eligible for:

• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked and paid into Social Security for a certain number of years, typically through payroll taxes. You must also have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): SSI is for individuals with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or aged (65 or older). Unlike SSDI, SSI doesn’t require a work history but focuses on your financial need.

Check If You Meet the SSA’s Definition of Disability

The SSA defines a disability as a condition that:

• Prevents you from engaging in any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
• Has lasted (or is expected to last) for at least 12 months or result in death.
• Affects your ability to perform basic work activities, like walking, standing, lifting, or understanding instructions.

Before applying, ensure that you have sufficient medical documentation that supports your disability. This includes doctor’s notes, hospital records, test results, and any other medical evidence that shows your condition severely limits your ability to work.

Gather Required Documentation

To apply for disability benefits in Michigan, you will need to gather the following documentation:

• Medical records: These include doctor’s notes, test results, and hospital records that prove the severity of your disability.
• Work history: The SSA will need details about your previous employment, including the jobs you’ve had and the type of work you performed.
• Personal information: This includes your Social Security number, birth certificate, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency, and bank account details for direct deposit.
• Income and resource information: For SSI applicants, the SSA will review your income and assets to determine eligibility.

Apply for Disability Benefits

There are three main ways to apply for disability benefits in Michigan:

Option 1: Apply Online

• The SSA’s online portal is the fastest and easiest way to apply for disability benefits. You can fill out the application for both SSDI and SSI on the SSA’s official website at www.ssa.gov.
• The online application guides you through each section, and you can save your progress if you need to complete it later.
• The website also provides helpful tips and instructions on what information you will need to submit.

Option 2: Apply by Phone

• You can apply for disability benefits by calling the SSA’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213. The SSA will schedule a phone interview to collect the necessary information and assist you with completing your application.
• This option is particularly useful if you are unable to apply online or prefer speaking with an SSA representative.

Option 3: Apply In Person

• If you prefer to apply in person, you can visit your local Social Security office in Michigan. You can find the nearest office by visiting the SSA’s office locator.
• Due to COVID-19, many local offices may require an appointment, so be sure to call ahead before visiting.

Wait for a Decision on Your Application

After submitting your application, the SSA will review your case. On average, it takes about 3 to 5 months for the SSA to make a decision on your disability application. They will evaluate the following:

• Whether you meet the SSA’s disability criteria.
• Your medical condition and how it limits your ability to work.
• Your work history or financial eligibility (for SSI).

During this time, the SSA may contact you for additional information, so be sure to respond promptly to avoid delays.

What Happens If Your Claim is Denied?

It’s common for initial disability claims to be denied. In fact, approximately 70-80% of first-time disability applications are denied by the SSA. However, this doesn’t mean you should give up. You have the right to appeal the decision.

Steps to Appeal a Denied Claim:

• Request Reconsideration: If your initial claim is denied, you can request that the SSA reconsider their decision. This step involves a new review of your case by a different examiner and typically takes about 3 to 5 months.
• Request a Hearing: If the reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This step usually takes much longer, with wait times ranging from 12 to 18 months.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the Appeals Council, which can take an additional 6 to 12 months.
• Federal Court: If the Appeals Council denies your claim, you can take your case to federal court, which can take even longer.

How Long Does It Take to Get Approved?

The amount of time it takes to get approved for disability benefits in Michigan can vary widely:

• Initial Application: It usually takes about 3 to 5 months for the SSA to process your application.
• Appeals Process: If your claim is denied and you need to go through the appeals process, it can take 12 to 18 months or more to get a decision, depending on the stage of the appeals.