Tips for a Successful Disability Interview

The Social Security Disability Interview portion of your benefits application is crucial. To give you the best possible chance for acceptance and ensure a seamless process. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your disability interview.

The in-person Social Security Disability Interview

We recommend that you plan to arrive a few minutes early to be sure you are on time. Prompt arrival shows respect for the professionals you will be working with—the professionals who play a part in deciding the outcome of your case. Along the same lines, you should wear modest clothing appropriate for a professional setting. It’s best to leave children at home to avoid distractions.

The telephone interview 

Again, promptness is essential. Wait by your phone at least ten minutes before the expected call for SSDI phone interview. Be sure the number you provide has a reliable connection, preferably a landline. It’s best to communicate that you are expecting a call to other members of your household so the line will be free. If you are using a cell phone, make sure it is fully charged and keep a charger nearby just in case. Designate an area that is free from distractions such as radio, TV or small children.

Tips for all social security disability interview  types:

It’s important that you have all necessary forms completed and with you at the time of the interview. Studying them ahead of time will ensure the answers to their questions are fresh on your mind. Note: if you are applying for Social Security Disability, you must have the Application for Disability Insurance Benefits (Form SSA-16-F6).

If you are applying for Supplemental Security Income, you must have the Application for Supplemental Security Income (Form SSA-8000-BK). You will also need your Disability Report.

It’s also helpful to have medical records, test results and copies of all communication you’ve had regarding your disability and your case on hand during your appointment. We recommend keeping an accordion file with this information so every base is covered.

When answering questions, do so with honesty and without exaggeration. It’s important to provide information that’s complete, detailed and honest—but above all, it’s important to establish integrity.

Remember, the person who will be interviewing you is on your side. Be respectful, but relax. You are the expert on your health and your case, so you have nothing to worry about as long as you are honest. And you can always ask to speak to the person’s supervisor if you feel disrespected or uncomfortable at any time, but this is rare.

For more details about applying for benefits, including worksheets that will help you compile all necessary information to prepare for your Social Security Disability Interview, you can request a free copy of Attorney Jan Dils’ new book, Getting the Social Security Benefits You Deserve, by clicking here.