If you recently became severely disabled to the point that you can no longer work after having spent several years contributing to Social Security through payroll taxes, you may be eligible to receive monthly benefits through the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program overseen by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Before you can receive any such benefits, though, you will need to submit an application to the SSA and have that application accepted—which, as most people who have tried it in the past could tell you, is a lot trickier than you might think.
The Reno SSDI application process can be deceptively complicated, and even a small error or omission in the petition you submit to the SSA can dramatically increase the chances of your petition being denied. Fortunately, you have help available to you from our knowledgeable SSDI lawyers at Shook & Stone. We have years of experience helping people like you get the best possible outcomes from their unique claims.
Where to Apply for SSDI Benefits
Most people who apply for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits in Reno and throughout Nevada do so online through the Social Security Administration’s website. However, prospective applicants also have the option of applying in person by visiting the nearest Social Security Administration office, which for residents of Reno is located at 1140 Harvard Way, Reno, NV 89502.
It is also possible to apply over the phone by calling 1-800-772-1213 toll-free. People who are hard of hearing or deaf can call the alternate number, TTY 1-800-325-0778.
What to Include With an SSDI Petition
In brief, the SSA will be looking to determine two things from an application for SSDI benefits:
- Whether the applicant is sufficiently “disabled” according to the definition of “disability” put in place by the SSA
- Whether they have enough “work credits”—in other words, whether they paid enough FICA taxes out of their work wages, salary, or self-employment income—to qualify for SSDI coverage
This means you should aim to include as much documentary information as possible with your petition to prove you meet both these criteria, such as:
- Lab test results, if applicable
- A written overview of your employment history
- At least your most recent W-2 form or tax return
- Medical records and bills from all treatments received
- Contact information for treating physicians and facilities
- List of all medications—over-the-counter and prescription—taken to help with your disability
You will also need to provide your Social Security number and documentation, like a birth certificate, to establish your age. If you are applying for benefits in Reno through or on behalf of a spouse or child, you will need to provide their Social Security numbers as well and will likely need to establish their relationship with you through similar documentation.
Wondering if you meet the SSDI requirements?
Get Help With the SSDI Application Process from a Reno Attorney
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the backlog of SSDI applications that the SSA has yet to review has increased dramatically. This has led to a dramatic increase in the average wait time for people waiting for a response from the SSA after completing the Reno SSDI application process. Because of this, you should be prepared to wait six months or more to learn whether your application has been accepted—which is all the more reason to get professional help along the way.
An experienced SSDI lawyer at Shook & Stone can make sure your application is error-fine and includes as much evidence as possible to give you the strongest chance of success. Call today for a free consultation with one of our qualified attorneys.
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