Preparing for your disability interview will increase the chance for acceptance and ensure a seamless process. Here are six Social Security disability interview questions to know. Plus, learn tips on how to prepare for a disability interview.
When applying for disability benefits, the SSA schedules an interview with you either in person or over the phone. The purpose of this interview is to gather information about your condition to help make a claims decision.
Being prepared for your disability interview will ensure you have accurate and current information to provide during your interview.
The more information the SSA has about your conditions and disabilities, the more they understand your case. This will help award you benefits that will provide financial security and improve your day-to-day life.
Also Read: How to Win a Social Security Disability Claim
4 Common Social Security Disability Interview Questions
Provide the SSA with the facts and answers to prove you have a disabling condition preventing you from performing work. Prepare to answer these social security interview questions when applying for SSDI Benefits:
1. When did your conditions become disabling?
The SSA will ask you when your condition became so severe that you could not continue working. This information helps determine the alleged onset date of your disability.
2. What is your work history?
The SSA will ask several questions about your job. Prepare documentation on the last 15 years of work history.
For example, work-related questions include:
- Where did you previously work before you became disabled?
- What is the date you last worked?
- What were your day-to-day work activities?
- Who are your previous supervisors?
- Where were your previous work locations?
- Did you receive worker’s compensation for your injury?
- Are your conditions related to a work injury?
3. What is your medical history?
The SSA will want to know about your medical conditions and medical history. Prepare all contact information and dates of your most recent visits to share with the claim’s specialist. They will use this information to determine your disabling conditions.
Medical-related questions include:
- What medications are you currently taking?
- What are the names of your doctors?
- What is the contact information for your doctors?
- What are the dates you visited your doctors?
- What hospitals and clinics treat your conditions?
- What treatment do you receive for your conditions?
- What medications are you taking?
- What medical tests have you had done related to your conditions?
4. What is your marital status and household information?
The SSA may ask questions about the conditions of your family and household. The condition of your household can influence the benefits that you receive.
For example, the SSA may ask questions about:
- Your marital status
- The number of children
- Who lives in your home
- Names and dates of birth of your children under the age of 18
- The contact information of immediate family members
- Your military service, if applicable
2 Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Interview Questions
SSI disability payments are benefits that cover disabled people with low income and may not have paid enough into social security to be covered.
If you plan on applying for the SSI program, there are additional SSA interview questions you should prepare to answer. Common disability interview questions include:
1. What is the amount of your resources and income?
The SSA will want to know about any income you and your spouse receive. This income may be from investments, community organizations, work-specific injury benefits, retirement benefits, among others.
Prepare documentation relevant to all your sources of income. Prepare to answer questions about:
- Your sources of income
- Bank account balances
- Any investments
- Properties you own
- Vehicles you own
- Assistance programs
2. What is your current living arrangement?
The SSA will also ask for details on your living arrangement. Preparing details about your current living situation helps determine your financial status and likelihood of receiving benefits.
Prepare to answer questions about:
- Your marital status
- Your children, if applicable
- Who lives in your home
- Household expenses such as rent, utilities, mortgage payments, etc.
6 Tips for a Successful Disability Interview
Preparing for your interview will increase the chance for acceptance and ensure a seamless process. Here are tips to help you prepare for your disability interview.
- Bring your medical records and other relevant documentation to your in-person interview. Or have them accessible while on a phone interview. Your interviewer may wish to review them.
- Have all necessary forms completed and with you during the interview. If you are applying for Social Security Disability, you must have the Application for Disability Insurance Benefits (Form SSA-16-F6). If you are applying for Supplemental Security Income, you must have the Application for Supplemental Security Income (Form SSA-8000-BK).
- Obtain written certified statements from your health care providers that include specific information about your conditions and diagnosis. This supporting information helps prove your disability affects your ability to perform work and function.
- Arrive ten minutes early for your in-person interview to ensure you are on time. Prompt arrival shows respect. You should also wear modest clothing appropriate for a professional setting.
- Wait by your phone at least ten minutes before the expected call for an SSDI phone interview.
- Designate an area free from distractions such as TV, radio, or small children if doing a phone interview.
- When answering questions, be honest and avoid exaggeration. It’s essential to provide complete, detailed, and truthful information.
Evans Disability Can Help You
If you are struggling with a disability and don’t know where to start, we encourage you to call us at 855-503-0101.
Our devoted team will help you every step of the way through the disability benefits application process.
Additionally, you can call Social Security at 800-772-1213 or visit your local office to apply for disability benefits.
