How to prepare yourself for the Social Security Disability Interview

Whenever an application is filed for SSD benefits, a representative from the local Social Security office will want to either set up an application interview at the local office or over the phone.

What to expect during the interview

Generally, the interview takes about an hour, but that depends on the case and how well you are prepared and organized with all of your medical documents. What you should remember during the interview is that it is based on facts and a decision is only made based on what evidence you can provide to Social Security. The interview will be conducted by a claims representative and they will ask you questions about your work as well as your condition and treatments you’ve received. There will also be questions that are not related to your disability, such as, your marital status and if you have any children.

Preparing for your interview

The best way to prepare for your interview is to make sure that you have all of your information in order. This includes doctors names and hospitals that you’ve been to for your condition within in past 12 months. You should also have the contact information for all of your past employers with the address of the workplace and phone number. Before the interview, you will be asked to fill out a form that will give you an organized structure of the interview process. This form will help the claims representative process all of the information you are giving them faster and more accurate.

Phone interview option

For those who have an issue making it to the Social Security office, there is an option to have the interview over the phone. The claim representative will call you based on a day and time that works for both you and the rep. Make sure you plan accordingly for this interview, such as putting aside an appropriate amount of time aside for the interview. You will still be asked the same questions if you were meeting in person.

Applying for SSD benefits is stressful and you may be nervous about the interview, but the best way to get through it is to be honest and organized. There are no tricks to the interview and you will know what they will ask ahead of time so the interview goes smooth.