Here at Bentoff & Duber in Cleveland, Ohio, we work frequently with people who have had their social security disability benefits denied. We help them file appeals to try to get the benefits they need. But what happens earlier in this process?
If you’re in the beginning stages of applying for social security disability benefits, you will be asked to set up an interview with a Social Security Administration claims representative either by phone or at your local office in person. These interviews typically last an hour or more.
To help you prepare for your interview questions, we have compiled a helpful list of items to bring. You should receive a form asking for this information before your interview, but if you do not, it’s a good idea to write down the below details to make your interview go smoothly.
Information to have on hand during interview:
- Your employment history for the past 15 years
- Including names and contact information of employers
- Your medical condition
- Past medical treatment for your disability
- Including doctor and hospital names and contact information
- List of medications currently being taken
- Your marital status and number of children
- Including marriage dates, divorce dates and children’s birthdates and social security numbers
- Past military service dates, branch and rank if applicable
- Whether you’ve received workers’ compensation for your injuries
Items to bring to an in-person interview:
- List of above details or completed form
- Photo ID
- Birth certificate
- Proof of U.S. or legal residency if born in another country
- W-2 from the previous year or your federal tax return
- Military discharge record if applicable
- Name and contact information of a secondary contact who can reach you
Have questions about the differences in Social Security disability benefits? Ask the experts at Bentoff & Duber by calling 216-861-1234 or submit a contact form for your free consultation.
About the author: Brandon Duber, a Partner with Bentoff & Duber Co., LPA, is a lawyer with proven experience in the courtroom and expertise in the areas of workers’ compensation, criminal defense, personal injury and medical malpractice law. He received his B.A. from Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY and his J.D. from The Case Western Reserve University School of Law in Cleveland, OH.