1. Gather Required Information

Before starting your SSDI application, prepare:

• Personal details: Social Security number, birth certificate, family information
• Medical records: Doctor notes, hospital records, prescriptions, test results
• Work history: Jobs you’ve had in the last 15 years, including job duties and dates
• Financial records: Recent tax documents, income information, and workers’ compensation (if any)

2. Choose How to Apply in Utah

You can file your SSDI application in three ways:

• Online: Submit your application through SSA.gov.
• By phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778).
• In person: Visit a local SSA office in Utah. Offices are located in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, St. George, and other cities.

3. Complete the Application

The application requires:

• A list of your medical conditions and treatments
• Contact information for your doctors, clinics, and hospitals
• A detailed employment history
• An explanation of how your disability prevents you from working

4. Submit Medical Evidence

• Provide complete and updated records from your doctors and specialists.
• If needed, SSA may schedule you for a consultative medical exam in Utah.
• The stronger your evidence, the faster the decision-making process may be.

5. SSA Review and Decision

• Utah’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews your case.
• Timeline: Most initial decisions take about 3 to 6 months.
• Many first applications are denied, which means you may need to file an appeal.

6. Appeal If Denied

If denied, you can appeal through four stages:

1. Reconsideration
2. Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
3. Appeals Council review
4. Federal Court review (if necessary)

Why This Process Matters

Submitting a complete and accurate application with strong medical evidence can prevent unnecessary delays. The more prepared you are, the better your chances of approval during the initial stages.