Essential Documents for an SSDI Application

Personal Identification

• Birth certificate or other proof of birth
• Social Security card or a record of your Social Security number
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status (if not born in the U.S.)
• Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, etc.)

Work and Income Records

• Recent W-2 forms or federal tax returns (if self-employed)
• A detailed work history for the past 15 years, including job titles, responsibilities, and dates of employment
• Military discharge papers (Form DD-214) if you served in the military before 1968
• Information about workers’ compensation or other disability benefits you’re receiving or have applied for

Medical Documentation

• Contact information for all doctors, clinics, hospitals, and therapists
• Medical records including diagnoses, lab test results, treatment notes, hospitalizations, and medications
• A detailed list of medications you are currently taking, along with dosages and prescribing doctors
• Statements from your treating physicians explaining how your condition limits your ability to work

You can request these records yourself, or the SSA will try to obtain them with your permission—but having them ready can speed up the process.

Function and Daily Activity Details

• A list of your daily activities and how your disability affects them
• Third-party statements (from family, friends, caregivers) that describe how your condition impacts your day-to-day life
• A completed “Adult Function Report” (SSA-3373) that helps the SSA evaluate your ability to function at home and at work

Why These Documents Matter

Providing thorough and accurate documentation gives the SSA the evidence it needs to:

• Verify your medical condition
• Evaluate your ability to work
• Ensure you meet the non-medical eligibility requirements (like having sufficient work credits)

Missing or incomplete documents can lead to delays or even denials, so being organized is key.