Steps to File for Social Security Disability in Minnesota

Step 1: Determine Which Program You Qualify For: SSDI vs. SSI

Before filing, it's important to understand which program is best suited for your needs:

• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): SSDI is for individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes long enough to qualify. If you have worked a certain number of years and paid into the Social Security system, this may be the right program for you.
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): If you don’t have a work history or your income and resources are limited, you may be eligible for SSI. This program is based on financial need, rather than work history, and helps those who are disabled and have limited financial means.

Step 2: Check Your Eligibility

Regardless of which program you are applying for, the SSA requires you to meet certain criteria to qualify for disability benefits:

• Disability Definition: You must have a condition that severely limits your ability to work or perform basic tasks. This condition must have lasted, or be expected to last, at least 12 months or result in death.
• Work History (SSDI only): For SSDI, you must have earned sufficient work credits based on your age and the number of years you’ve worked.
• Income and Resources (SSI only): For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. As of 2025, you cannot have more than $2,000 in assets as an individual, or $3,000 as a couple.

Step 3: Gather the Necessary Documentation

To apply for Social Security Disability in Minnesota, you’ll need to provide comprehensive documentation that proves your disability and financial situation. Some important documents include:

• Medical Records: Detailed medical records from doctors, specialists, and hospitals that document your disability.
• Work History (for SSDI): Documentation of your past employment, including job titles, dates of employment, and a description of duties.
• Financial Information (for SSI): Proof of income, assets, and any other financial resources you have.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

There are several ways to file your application for Social Security Disability in Minnesota:

• Online: The fastest way to apply is through the SSA’s online application portal at www.ssa.gov. This allows you to fill out and submit your application from the comfort of your home.
• By Phone: You can also apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to complete your application over the phone.
• In-Person: If you prefer to file your application in person, you can visit your local SSA office. Find the nearest SSA office in Minnesota using the SSA office locator: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp

Step 5: Submit Your Medical and Financial Evidence

Along with your application, be sure to submit all the required documentation, including your medical records, financial information (if applying for SSI), and work history (if applying for SSDI). The SSA will use this information to evaluate your eligibility for benefits.

Step 6: Understand the SSA’s Evaluation Process

Once your application is submitted, the SSA will evaluate your case through a five-step process:

• Step 1: Are you currently working? If you are working and earning above a certain amount, the SSA may deny your claim.
• Step 2: Do you have a severe medical condition? Your condition must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work tasks.
• Step 3: Does your condition match an SSA-listed impairment? If your condition matches one of the SSA’s listed impairments, you may automatically qualify for benefits.
• Step 4: Can you perform your previous work? If you can still do your past work, you may not qualify for benefits.
• Step 5: Can you do other types of work? The SSA will look at whether you are capable of performing any other kind of work based on your skills and experience.

Step 7: Follow Up on Your Application

After submitting your application, it’s important to stay on top of the status of your case. You can track your application status by creating an online account with the SSA, or you can call the SSA to ask for updates.

If additional information is requested, be sure to respond promptly to avoid delays in the processing of your claim.

Step 8: Be Prepared for a Denial

It’s common for Social Security Disability claims to be denied initially. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. The first step in the appeals process is requesting a reconsideration. If this is also denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is an important step, as it gives you the opportunity to present your case in person.