Many disability applicants often remark about the confusing multitude of forms that the Social Security Administration (SSA) utilizes and requires during the disability application process. In this and the next two blogs, I will attempt to explain the forms commonly used when applying for both Social Security Disability Benefits (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The forms are encoded with either an “SSA” or “HA” prefix, the latter standing for “hearings and appeals.”
Hopefully, this brief summary will provide some information and clarity regarding the forms utilized in filing a claim for disability benefits. An experienced disability attorney is important in helping applicants for disability benefits sufficiently complete every form required during the initial application process and thereafter.
- Application For Retirement Insurance Benefits (SSA-1-BK) & Application For Wife’s or Husband’s Insurance Benefits (SSA-2-BK)
These forms allow individuals and their spouses to apply for all insurance benefits for which the individual is eligible under Title II (Federal Old-Age Survivors, and Disability insurance) and Part A of Title XVII (health Insurance for the Aged and Disabled) of the Social Security Act.
Application For Disability Benefits (SSA-16-BK)
This form allows an applicant to apply for a period of disability and/or all insurance benefits for which he or she is eligible under Title II and Part A of Title XVIII of the Social Security Act. The SSA-16 requests information in the form of 28 questions and includes a receipt for the form itself. It also includes instructions on how to report changes in information to the SSA. The form includes a question as to the date of disability, and prior marriages.
- Request for Reconsideration (SSA-561-U2)
This is an appellate form. This form is used to appeal the SSA’s unfavorable determination regarding an applicant’s initial claim for SSDI, SSI or SVB (Special Veterans Benefits). The form gives multiple choices as to what type of review is desired. This is almost a moot point because the approval rate on Reconsideration is abysmally low. The form applies to denials for medical and non-medical (technical) reasons. A claimant must list his or her reason for disagreeing with the SSA’s determination. Any major changes in health conditions are reported in detail on another form, but the fact there is a change can be mentioned on this form.
- Authorization to Disclose Information to SSA (SSA-827)
This is simply the SSA’s release form, typically used to acquire your medical records. You have put your health at issue by filing a disability claim and the SSA will attempt to get some of all of your medical records (yo list the providers on another form). The SSA-827 allows claimants to voluntarily authorize and request disclosure of information related to eligibility of benefits to the SSA or any state agency authorized to process the applicant’s disability case. The authorization declared in the form is good for 12 months from the date signed.
Stay tuned for parts two and three!
An experienced disability attorney can help ease the mental and emotional stress related to a severe medical condition by expeditious and effective legal representation. Contact Sullivan Law Office today. We offer free consultations, so you have absolutely nothing to lose! We look forward to hearing from you. Call 888-587-0228 or visit us online.
