Fill out SSA-16 (Application for Disability Insurance Benefits) online
Form SSA-16 is the application for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. SSDI provides monthly payments to individuals who are unable to work due to a medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Benefits are based on your work history and Social Security tax contributions, not financial need.
How to fill out SSA-16 (Application for Disability Insurance Benefits)
Gather medical and work information
Collect the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all doctors, hospitals, and clinics that have treated your condition. Gather medical records, test results, and a list of all medications. Also prepare your work history for the past 15 years including job titles and duties.
Enter personal and contact information
Provide your full legal name, Social Security number, date of birth, and contact information. List any other names you have used during employment. Include bank account details for direct deposit of benefits.
Describe your disability and medical treatment
List all physical and mental conditions that limit your ability to work. Provide the date your disability began and explain how your conditions prevent you from working. Include details about all medical treatment received and scheduled.
Provide your work history
Describe your jobs for the past 15 years, including job titles, duties performed, tools and equipment used, amount of walking, standing, and lifting required, and the dates of employment. SSA uses this to determine if you can perform any of your past work.
Review and submit
Review all information for accuracy and completeness. Sign the application. Submit along with any available medical records. SSA will contact your medical providers for additional records and may schedule a consultative examination at no cost to you.
About SSA-16 (Application for Disability Insurance Benefits)
Who needs this form
Workers who have become disabled and have earned enough Social Security work credits through prior employment (generally 20 credits in the last 10 years, though younger workers may qualify with fewer credits). The disability must prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity and be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
Where to submit
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. It is recommended to apply as soon as you become disabled, as there is a five-month waiting period before benefits begin and processing can take three to six months or longer.
Source and content freshness
- Reviewed: 2026-02-24
- Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not applying early enough (the five-month waiting period starts from the onset of disability, not the application date)
- Failing to provide complete medical evidence from all treating physicians, hospitals, and clinics
- Not listing all physical and mental conditions that limit your ability to work
- Continuing to work above the substantial gainful activity threshold while the application is pending
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How long does it take to get approved for SSDI?
Initial processing typically takes three to six months. About 65% of initial applications are denied, in which case you can request reconsideration and then a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. The appeals process can take an additional one to two years. Submitting thorough medical evidence upfront and ensuring all treating providers are listed can help speed up the initial decision. Once approved, there is a five-month waiting period before benefits begin, counted from your established onset date.
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