Parents of children with Autism and many others often apply for SSI disability on behalf of their child. Social security SSI is important for children on the Autistic spectrum to receive and it does involve a process. The process can be overwhelming to parents if they don’t know what to expect. Here is the process I went through when I applied for my son to receive SSI benefits.
In Person or Phone Interview
At the time of this writing, SSI disability can be applied for either in person or by phone interview. This is convenient and it is primarily because many disabled individuals have difficulty with mobility or do not have transportation. Therefore, simply select which option is more appropriate. Do not forget about the phone interview if that is the option you have scheduled as not showing up even by phone can go against the application.
Have Medical Documents Organized
There will be so many questions asked in the SSI disability interview that it is very important to have all the medical documents organized before the application. Try to have the most recent medical information handy as recent assessments and evaluations are necessary. Many people have found it wise to have all the medical information in a well- organized binder and separated by category. Whatever the method, make sure that recent medical information is at your fingertips.
Accurate Financial Information
The finances of the disabled person and the household where the disabled person lives will be assessed. Have a list of everything from rent or mortgage payments, utilities bills and car payments if applicable. Naturally, you also want the most recent checking account statements and paystubs handy. All of this financial information must be proven by sending in copies. The interviewer will tell you the exact address to where this financial proof must be sent. Be very truthful on the application.
Expect a Waiting Period
By the very nature of these services, it will take awhile to be accepted or approved. This can mean many months. Some people do need to file appeals when appropriate, thus lengthening the process even more. Keep yourself busy during this time in order to stay occupied and not become anxious about the status of the application. Stay busy with other things during the waiting period and remember “a watched pot never boils.”
The above is the process I encountered when I applied for SSI disability for my son. I am not a lawyer and this does not constitute legal advice, it is just my experience. It is important to get started with it as receiving SSI benefits does involve a process of time. Many people have even applied and then forgotten about it until they suddenly received a letter in the mail one day. If you desire social security SSI for yourself or a loved one then get started and apply sooner rather than later.
