How To Apply In Oklahoma Disability Law Is All We Do

Tulsa Social Security Attorneys on Filing SSI/SSDI Benefits

How to Apply for Social Security Disability in Oklahoma

Are you no longer able to work due to disabilities? If you are struggling financially, applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) may be in your best interest. If you do not qualify for SSDI benefits, you may be eligible for other programs, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

Gaining benefits under SSI or SSDI can be complicated. Unfortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) initially denies the majority of Oklahoma disability claims due to errors made during the application process. As a result, our law firm wants to give your case the best chance of success. We can help you navigate the process more easily.

Call our experienced Tulsa Social Security attorneys now for a free evaluation of your case at (918) 265-1404.

Filing an Initial Application for Social Security Disability Benefits in Oklahoma

Before the SSA expanded technologically, those wanting to apply for disability benefits had to either call the agency directly or visit local field offices. Now, disability claimants have the option of filing their disability claims online in addition to applying for SSD in person or over the phone.

This first step in how to apply for disability is known as the initial application for disability benefits. Mistakes made during this stage of the application process can easily cause a Social Security claim denial.

Some common mistakes to avoid during the initial SSD application process include:

  • Applying for Benefits Too Early: To qualify for SSD benefits, you must have an impairment or disability that is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in your death. If you apply for benefits too soon, such as the day after suffering an injury, it could be much more difficult to prove that your disability will last long enough to make you eligible for benefits.
  • Failing to Properly Fill Out Forms: You will need to fill out and submit several forms during the initial application stage. You should ensure that these forms are completely filled out, as missing or incorrect information could result in the denial of your claim.
  • Missing Forms: Similarly, if you fail to file certain required forms entirely, your initial claim will almost certainly be denied. We recommend that you work with a knowledgeable attorney at our firm to ensure that you do not miss any forms or fail to provide sufficient evidence in support of your SSD claim.
  • Not Providing Adequate Medical Information/Records: If you do not obtain and provide sufficient medical evidence to support your claim, it may be denied. Do NOT assume that the consultative exam (CE) requested by the SSA will provide enough information to prove that you have a qualifying disability. In fact, CEs are rarely used on their own to prove the existence of a disability; instead, they are typically used in conjunction with other supporting medical evidence.
  • Writing Illegibly: If your case reviewer can’t read your answers, then he/she can’t really say that you answered that question. Be sure the answers to questions are neat and preferably typed out.
  • Incorrect Information: If the form asks you for your doctor and you put the wrong name down, then your case reviewer isn’t going to be able to confirm the medical diagnosis that proves you have a disability. Make sure you spell everything correctly and have the proper information for every question.
  • Missing the Deadline: You must reply to most forms sent by the SSA within 10 days. That gives you little time to answer everything. If you need more time, then you have to contact the SSA immediately and ask for an extension.
  • Contradiction: If you say something in the first part of your application and then contradict yourself in a later section, the SSA may deny your disability application. Make sure you have your facts straight before you make conflicting statements.
  • Rejecting Help: If you thought there were a lot of things on this list, then you would be amazed to find that even more can go wrong on your disability application. Seeking professional help from a disability attorney could really help you to get the benefits that you need. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if your case starts to overwhelm you.

The initial SSD application process involves filing several forms, all of which must be properly and entirely filled out prior to being submitted.

Some of the forms used by the SSA during this process include:

  • Form SSA-16-BK
  • Form SSA-3368-BK
  • Adult Disability Report

On these forms, the SSA will ask for various information, such as the date you became unable to work because of your illness, injuries, or condition. This date is incredibly important as it may allow you to seek back payments from the time you stopped working.

Other information you may need to provide includes but is not limited to:

  • Your name, including your name at birth if different from your current name
  • Your date and place of birth
  • Your gender
  • Your Social Security number
  • Whether you have ever used another Social Security number
  • Your citizenship status
  • Whether you have ever filed for SSD benefits, SSI, or Medicare
  • Whether you performed active military service before 1968, as well as the dates of service if so and whether you are or have been eligible for military or federal civilian agency benefits
  • Your marriage status and spouse’s details if married
  • Whether you have received workers’ compensation benefits

Our firm can help you prepare your forms and provide the necessary information to help avoid issues with your application. To learn more, please reach out to our Tulsa, OK Social Security Disability application attorneys today.

What Questions Does the SSA Ask When I Apply for SSD?

You will need to provide details about your disabilities, including how they affect your ability to work. The SSA wants you to provide information that supports your inability to continue working because of severe functional limitations. Embellishing or understating your condition on these documents could result in a denial of your disability claim. You should document the effects of your disability on your ability to work in a truthful yet thorough way.

The SSA may request contact information for the medical providers you have worked with, including addresses and phone numbers of doctors, caseworkers, hospitals, and clinics you have visited, as well as any laboratory and test results documenting your illness or disabilities.

During the initial disability application stage, you may also be asked to provide financial information, including tax forms, in addition to Social Security numbers and proof of age for family members who may also qualify for benefits.

You can call us at (918) 265-1404 or fill out the case review form.

Contact a Tulsa Social Security Disability Lawyer for Application Help Today

Money obtained through SSDI can help you pay for basic living expenses, such as rent or housing, food, transportation, and clothing. This can be a lifesaver if you are struggling financially and unable to work. Additionally, people who receive SSDI benefits may qualify for Medicare coverage, which can help pay for medical care.

Contact our Tulsa Social Security Disability law firm today with any questions regarding the SSDI application or SSI benefits process. We are dedicated exclusively to SSD law and can help you navigate the initial filing process. We can also assist you in filing an appeal if your claim has been denied. Our attorneys are here to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have throughout the entire process.

Applying for Social Security Disability

Frequently Asked Questions
  • What are my options for filing for Social Security Disability benefits in Oklahoma?

    There are two main Social Security Disability programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both programs provide monetary benefits to qualified individuals, but the requirements for SSDI are somewhat different from those for SSI. Learn more about the difference between SSDI and SSI here on our website, including eligibility requirements for either program. You can also contact Troutman & Troutman, P.C. directly for a free evaluation of your case with one of our Tulsa SSD attorneys.

  • How can I avoid having my initial SSD application denied?

     Unfortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies most first-time SSD applications. However, there are certain steps you can take to improve the likelihood of your claim being approved. First, you should make sure you are eligible for SSDI or SSI benefits before applying. Next, make sure you complete all applicable forms as honestly and thoroughly as possible. Missing information could jeopardize your claim, as could insufficient evidence of your medical condition. One of the best things you can do to improve your chances of having your initial claim approved is to work with an experienced SSD attorney who can help ensure you do not miss any critical steps or make any mistakes when filing your application.

  • What should I do if my Social Security Disability application is denied?

    If your claim is denied, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible. You have the right to request a reconsideration, but you must file your appeal within 60 days of receiving notice that your claim was denied. Get in touch with our attorneys at Troutman & Troutman, P.C. today if your SSD claim was denied to learn how we can help.

Why Choose Troutman & Troutman?

  • Committed to Keeping You Informed

    We understand that this can be a stressful and confusing time which, is why we pride ourselves on doing everything we can to keep you informed and knowledgeable about your case. Not only do we have an array of video and FAQs, but we also allow you direct access to your dedicated attorney.

  • Dedicated & Trusted Counsel

    Our attorneys are passionate about disability law. Everyone who works at our firm is here because they believe in helping people. We commit to representing clients through every part of the Social Security Disability claims process.

  • Over 25 Years of Dedicated Experience

    Since 1993, our attorneys have been helping people throughout Oklahoma get the Social Security benefits they deserve. Regardless of where you are in your case, our knowledgeable and experienced attorneys are here to help you obtain what you deserve.

  • Disability Law Is All We Do

    Social Security Disability is a unique area of the law because it is about representing clients going through very difficult times. We help by getting people the benefits they have earned and deserve. Our firm is proud of the fact that disability law is all we do.

    I didn't think there was a caring professional considerate attorney firm on the planet, but Troutman & Troutman proved me wrong. From the receptionist to the legal assistance to the attorney and more they were exceptional people.

    - Robert S.

    They did a fantastic job getting everything gathered up and getting the trial done as quickly as possible. Anytime I had a question they were patient and help me understand what was going on. Especially Christy and Charlie were great.

    - Michael M.

    Steve Troutman was able to get my short-term and long-term disability for me. Then Erin another lawyer for their firm got my Social security disability for me. Great people.

    - Billy S.

    Mr. Troutman walked me through the entire process. Heather was available each time I called, answered all my crazy questions, and helped me fill out forms along the way. I was never treated like I was wasting time.

    - Julia C.

    Erin and Keith were fabulous! They were compassionate, helpful, and very responsive! They made the process very smooth and painless every step of the way.

    - Valerie W.

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