The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers various benefits for disabled parties and senior citizens who have earned enough work credits over the course of their career. If you have a qualifying condition, you may be entitled to Social Security disability benefits. If, on the other hand, you are over 65 and blind or have a disability, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income. The SSA also provides retirement benefits for those who are over 62. Regardless of which benefits you plan on pursuing, many of the same documents will be required to complete the application. 

3 Documents You Will Need When Applying for Social Security Benefits

1. Income Statements 

Unless you’re applying for auxiliary Social Security disability benefits under a family member’s work credits, you will have to provide the SSA with proof of income. Documents that can help include paystubs and tax returns. It may also be necessary to provide records like award letters and deposit statements for any unearned income. 

2. Official Identification 

The SSA will need to see proof of age and citizenship. That means you should be prepared to provide a birth certificate and passport. If you are not a U.S. citizen, the SSA may ask for your permanent resident card or arrival and departure record—also known as Form I-94—as well. 

3. Work History

If the SSA asks for your work history, they essentially want to see a comprehensive resume. This document should contain a list of all the employers you worked for and all the positions you held over the past 15 years. Make sure to include the number of hours worked per week and your rates of pay, too.

If you need help applying for Social Security disability benefits, get in touch with Woodlawn Law Offices. Located in O’Fallon, MO, this general practice firm represents clients throughout all of St. Charles County. Led by Attorney David Schmidt, who has been in the field for 25 years, they provide comprehensive counsel in a variety of areas. Whether you are facing criminal charges or plan on filing for divorce, you can rely on them. Visit their website to explore all the legal services they offer, and call (636) 240-6667 to schedule a consultation with a Social Security disability lawyer today.