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Assistance With the Application Process

How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can feel overwhelming. The application requires detailed medical documentation, work history information, and strict adherence to Social Security Administration (SSA) deadlines. Even small errors or incomplete records can result in delays or denials.
Understanding the process, and knowing when to get an attorney involved, are important steps in the process. While you can apply for benefits on your own, statistically speaking, having an attorney involved – whether at the application stage or during an appeal – provides you a better chance of ultimately earning benefits. 
You can apply for disability benefits in three ways:

  • Online through the Social Security Administration website
  • By phone through a scheduled SSA appointment
  • In person at your local Social Security office

Most applicants choose to file online. The application requires detailed information about your employment history, medical providers, hospital visits, medications, and how your condition limits your ability to work.

If you cannot complete the application in one sitting, you can save your progress and return later using your re-entry number.

When applying by phone or in person, a Social Security representative will guide you through the required forms, including the Application for Disability Insurance Benefits, Adult Disability Report, Work History Report, and Authorization to Disclose Information.


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    Where Legal Experience Meets Personalized Support

    Proven Results & Trusted Advocacy

    Short-term and long-term disability claims can be complicated, often requiring supporting medical evidence, employer documentation, and a precise understanding of your insurance policy. Our attorneys guide clients through every step of the process to ensure claims are complete, timely, and persuasive.

    We take a strategic approach to every case, reviewing medical records, employment history, and policy language. This positions your claim for approval and minimizes delays or denials. Thousands of clients have successfully secured benefits with our assistance, giving them financial stability while focusing on recovery.

    Should You Involve an Attorney?

    Why Many Claims are Denied

    Up to 70% of disability claims are denied initially. It’s important to know that just because you were initially denied does not mean that you are not disabled or qualified for benefits. Often, it is something that was outside of your control, from application error to lack of medical evidence. The good news is, with the right help, up to 50% of those claims that were originally denied are ultimately approved.

    The most common reasons for a denial are:

    • Insufficient medical documentation
    • Incomplete work history information
    • Failure to clearly explain functional limitations
    • Missing deadlines or required forms

    You are not required to hire an attorney to apply for SSDI or SSI. However, many individuals choose to involve legal counsel early in the process to avoid mistakes and strengthen their claim from the start.

    An experienced disability attorney can:

    • Evaluate whether you meet medical and technical eligibility requirements
    • Identify gaps in medical evidence before filing
    • Coordinate with your doctors to obtain persuasive documentation
    • Ensure all forms are completed accurately and submitted on time
    • Represent you during reconsideration and Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearings if necessary

    Early legal guidance can reduce delays and improve your chances of approval.

    Getting the Right Help for Your SSDI Claim

    Appeals and Hearing Representation

    If your claim has already been denied, you still have options. Many valid disability claims are approved during reconsideration or at a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.

    At the hearing stage, preparation becomes even more important. Vocational advocates may testify about your ability to work, and legal arguments must be clearly presented.

    Tabak Law represents clients through:

    • Requests for Reconsideration
    • Administrative Law Judge hearings
    • Appeals Council review
    • Federal court appeals when necessary

    Having experienced representation at this stage can significantly strengthen your case.

    Why Choose Tabak Attorneys?

    Dedicated Disability Representation: Specialized knowledge in STD, LTD, and ERISA claims

    Nationwide Reach: Serving clients across the country

    No Upfront Fees: You pay nothing unless we secure your benefits

    Personalized Support: Clear communication, regular updates, and compassionate guidance

    Our Trusted SSDI Attorneys

    • Lauren J. Zwirlein

      President

    • Jillian Davis

      Social Security Disability Attorney

    • Robert Wankmuller

      Social Security Disability Attorney

    • Dave Fitzpatrick

      Social Security Disability Attorney

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    Choosing Tabak Law gives you a legal partner focused on protecting your income and financial stability during challenging times.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    You can begin your application online through the Social Security Administration’s website, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. Before starting, it helps to gather your work history, medical provider information, medication lists, and documentation of how your condition limits your ability to work.

    You will need detailed information about your employment history, including dates and job duties, as well as contact information for all doctors, hospitals, and clinics that have treated you. Social Security will also ask about your education, daily activities, and how your condition affects your ability to function.

    Yes. If you apply online, you can save your progress and return later using your re-entry number. It is important to keep this number in a safe place so you can access your application again.

    You are not required to have an attorney, but involving one early can help ensure your application is complete and supported by strong medical evidence. Many denials happen because important details were missing or unclear. Tabak Law can review your case, identify potential weaknesses, and help present your claim clearly from the start.

    Common issues include incomplete work history descriptions, failing to explain functional limitations, missing medical records, or underestimating how detailed the application needs to be. Social Security evaluates how your condition limits your ability to work — not just your diagnosis.

    Initial decisions typically take several months. If additional information is requested, responding quickly can help avoid further delays. If your claim is denied, the appeals process may extend the timeline.

    After submission, Social Security may contact you for additional information or schedule a consultative medical exam. You will receive a written decision by mail. If your claim is denied, you have a limited window to file an appeal.

    Tabak Law can handle your application from start to finish — gathering medical evidence, coordinating with providers, completing required forms accurately, and monitoring deadlines. If your claim is denied, we continue representing you through reconsideration, hearings, and further appeals if necessary.

    Learn More About Disability Benefits

    Stay informed with helpful guides on short-term and long-term disability, ERISA rules, and appeal strategies.

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    See Other Disability Benefits Resources

    Contact Tabak Law

    If an illness or injury prevents you from working, do not navigate short-term or long-term disability claims alone. Our attorneys evaluate your case, guide you through the claims process, and help secure the benefits you deserve.

    Social Security office 16595 W. Bluemound Road Brookfield, WI 53005
    VA Office: 6500 Washington Ave. Mt Pleasant, WI 53406
    VA Office: 1410 N Newman Rd. Mt Pleasant, WI 53406
    Personal Injury Office Barnabas Business Center – Washington Building 4650 N. Port Washington Rd., Suite 132 Glendale, WI 53212
    Toll Free 800-245-1430
    Local 414-351-4400