How To Prepare for a Disability Interview

When you apply for Social Security disability benefits, you have to go through an interview. The interview process requires planning and patience. Preparing for your disability interview can improve your chances of approval.

We’ll cover basic information about how to prepare for a disability interview. But every situation is different. For legal advice about your Social Security disability claim, talk to a local Social Security disability attorney.

What Is a Social Security Disability Interview?

Workers who can no longer earn a living can get benefits from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). To qualify for SSDI benefits, you have to meet the Social Security Administration (SSA) definition of disability. This means:

• You are unable to do substantial work because of your medical condition; and
• Your medical condition is expected to last at least one year or result in death

If you have a limited income, you can also apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). You’ll be asked other questions about SSI benefits, including about your:

• Current living situation and expenses
• Sources of income
• Assets and resources (like bank accounts, investments, and vehicles)

The application process starts by submitting a Social Security disability claim. You can submit your claim online, by phone, or by visiting your local Social Security office. After submitting your application, the SSA may contact you for a disability interview. The interview can take place by phone, video call, or an in-person interview.

During the interview, the claims representative can ask questions about your application, work history, and disabling condition. Disability interview questions are for the SSA to determine your eligibility. A disability interview can last an hour or longer.

Not every applicant has to do an interview. However, interviews are more common for SSI claims. It doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong with your application. It’s a normal part of the disability claim process.

Where Does the SSDI Interview Take Place?

The Social Security disability interview usually happens by phone. But you can also have the interview in person at your local SSA office. If you prefer to have the interview in a language other than English, Social Security can provide free interpreter services.

What Documents Do I Need for a Disability Interview?

For the application and interview, you will need to gather information about yourself, your employment history, and your medical condition. The SSA has a checklist to make sure you have all the records and information you need.

If the SSA schedules an interview, bring all your information. For a phone interview, make sure you have all the information to give to the disability representative.

What Personal Information Do I Need?

Personal information for your disability interview and application includes:

• Social Security number
• Place and date of birth
• Information about your spouse and any former spouses
• Contact information for other people who know about your health condition
• Workers’ compensation claim information
• Direct deposit information

What Medical Records Do I Need?

You also need to provide information about your medical history and health, including:

• Medical records in your possession
• Contact information for your healthcare providers and hospitals
• Medications
• Medical tests related to your medical condition

What Employment Information Do I Need?

Gather records and information about your employment history, including:

• List of jobs from the past 15 years (including self-employment)
• Education level or special education
• Trade and vocational training

Will Social Security Contact My Doctor After an Interview?

The SSA will send your application to a state agency that determines disability. Their agents can contact your doctors and healthcare providers to get access to your medical records. Sometimes, they may require more examinations or medical tests. These could be with your current doctor or an independent provider.

When Will I Hear Back About the Disability Interview?

It will take some time before you hear about the results of your SSDI interview. The SSA estimates 6 to 8 months for an initial decision. This is a long time to wait without knowing whether you will get the disability benefits you need.

Many applicants, when they finally hear back, get a denial. If your application doesn’t get approved, you can contact a Social Security disability lawyer about filing an appeal.

How Can I Appeal a Disability Determination?

If you hear back from the interview and the SSA denies your claim, you can still file an appeal. A Social Security disability lawyer can review your disability application and find out why your claim was not approved. They can help you gather all the supporting documentation and represent you at a Social Security disability hearing.

Contact a Social Security disability lawyer for help with your disability claim.