Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility for SSDI in North Carolina

Before you begin the application process, you need to ensure you meet the basic eligibility requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). To qualify for SSDI, you must:

• Have a disability that prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.
• Have worked and paid into Social Security for a sufficient number of years. The number of years depends on your age at the time your disability began. Generally, you need to have worked for at least 5 of the last 10 years prior to becoming disabled.

In North Carolina, the SSDI program is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), and your eligibility will depend on your work history and the severity of your disability.

Step 2: Gather Your Documentation

To claim SSDI benefits in North Carolina, you will need to provide the SSA with detailed documentation. Make sure you have the following items ready:

• Your Social Security number and birth certificate (or other proof of age).
• Medical records: Provide documentation from your doctor that details your condition, treatment history, and how it affects your ability to work.
• Work history: This includes the names of employers, your dates of employment, and the type of work you’ve done in the past 15 years.
• Tax and income information: Submit copies of your tax returns or pay stubs that show your earnings over the years.
• Proof of any other income: If you are receiving other benefits, like workers’ compensation, you must report that to the SSA.

Step 3: Apply for SSDI Benefits in North Carolina

You can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in several ways:

Apply Online

• The easiest and fastest way to apply is online through the SSA’s official website at www.ssa.gov.
• The online application allows you to submit your personal information, medical history, work history, and income details. Be sure to answer all questions carefully and provide accurate information.
• You can save your progress and finish the application later if needed.

Apply by Phone

• You can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to apply by phone. A representative will help you complete the application over the phone, and they can answer any questions you may have about the process.

Apply in Person

• Visit your local SSA office: You can also apply for SSDI in person by scheduling an appointment at your local Social Security office in North Carolina. You can find the nearest office using the SSA's online office locator tool.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision on Your Application

Once you have submitted your SSDI application, the SSA will review your case. This can take several months (typically 3-5 months), and the SSA may request additional information from you or your doctors during this time. You will receive a notice from the SSA informing you of their decision.

If your claim is approved, you will begin receiving monthly benefits. If your claim is denied, don’t worry—many claims are initially denied, and you have the right to appeal the decision.

Step 5: Understand the Appeals Process (If Denied)

If your SSDI application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Here’s what you can do:

• Request Reconsideration: The first step is to request a reconsideration. This is where the SSA reviews your application again, and you can submit new evidence if needed.
• Request a Hearing: If the reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is your opportunity to present your case in person and provide additional medical evidence.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can ask the Appeals Council to review the decision.

Step 6: Check the Status of Your Claim

Once you’ve submitted your application, you can track the status of your claim online by creating an account with the SSA. You can also call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to check the progress of your application.