What You Need to Know Before Your SSDI Interview
When you first apply for Social Security disability benefits, you may be nervous to find that a big part of the process is a formal interview. To fully prepare yourself, it is important to know what kind of questions to expect from your SSDI interviewers. Here, we’ll make sure you’re prepared for your appointment.
Your Condition
If you have a physical or mental disability that prevents you from working, you may qualify for social security benefits. Your approval hinges on several factors, one of which is the outcome of your interview. The interviewers will ask you a series of questions regarding your condition(s). You should be prepared to discuss:
- What your conditions are
- When they became disabling
- What specifically about the conditions prevented you from working
To present your best case, it’s best to have the names, address, phone numbers, and dates of your doctor visits. Your interviewer may also ask which medications you have been on and what medical tests you have had completed by your treating doctors.
Work History
During your application interview, you will more than likely be asked about your work history, financials, and living arrangements. It is important to have a date you last worked and where you have been receiving treatment. Also, proof of address may be helpful in determining living arrangements, which is covered in the next section.
Marital Status
You will also be asked your marital status and some specifics regarding your spouse’s income. If you are applying for supplemental security income, you will be asked additional information regarding your living arrangement. These questions usually focus on who lives there and your current household expenses. There will also be questions regarding you and your spouse’s incomes, resources, investments, vehicles, homes, and bank accounts.
Related: How to Optimize Benefits as a Married Couple
How Can an Attorney Help?
Even though this process can be daunting, it helps to be prepared and know what to expect. It is helpful to have as much of this information in writing as possible before your interview. Also, if you have legal aid, you will most likely discuss this information with your attorney, to ensure you are ready.
Because most claims get denied the first time, it’s important to consult an expert in the field, and that’s where we can help. We’ve been serving Orange County and its residents for over 30 years and have the experience and knowledge to get your SSDI claim approved.
If you have questions or would like a free consultation, contact the Kenneth G. Marks Law Firm at (949) 288-4455. We look forward to serving you!