The First Step?

Hi, I need to apply for disability (mental illness). I am so confused by the process. What is the very first step I should take to start the ball rolling?

You can file online at SSA.gov

I hired a lawyer from the get go, I'm glad I did. They only charge a % if you win benefits.

Good luck

You get hard copy of all your medical records, doctors visits. You get a letter from your pdc stating they found you medically disabled. Then you photo copy all your materials and you fill out paperwork for your disability. IF YOU HAVE BEEN OUT OF WORK FOR OVER A YEAR YOU CAN GO DOWN TO THE SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE AND SIGN UP RIGHT THEN AND THERE WITH YOUR DOCTOR'S LETTER THAT YOU ARE DISABLED and you should start receiving benefits.
If you get a lawyer they are known for stretching it out for at least 3 times cause they get a 25% usually of what you win.. so the more they stretch it out the more money they make off of you and your misery. Talk to your doctor and get a medical letter stating you are disabled with medical documentation from her/him.
If you have been out of work for more than a year then go down to social security directly with COPIES OF YOUR PAPERWORK and file then and there for disability.
ALWAYS KEEP THE ORIGINIALS...

this should help ... (((hugs)))

Thank you both so much!

Hi there!

I applied online. Be as thorough as possible in your application. The more info you provide about your health and daily functioning, the better. Get legal counsel if you need to appeal, for sure. Good luck and keep us posted. xo

I applied over a year and a half ago. I used legal counsel from the start. They told me they will only get paid if they win, so they're selective in which cases they accept. In any event, I'm still waiting for my case to heard in court after I appealed the initial rejection. Just keep in mind the process takes a couple of years. Good luck to you!