1. Gather All Personal and Work Information

Before you start filling out the forms, have the following ready:

• Social Security number and date of birth
• List of all jobs held in the last 15 years, including employer names and dates worked
• Job descriptions that show the physical and mental demands of your work
• Information about your education and training

2. Collect Comprehensive Medical Documentation

The SSA bases approval heavily on medical evidence, so your paperwork should include:

• Names, addresses, and phone numbers of all doctors, clinics, and hospitals
• Dates of all treatments, tests, and evaluations
• Detailed medical reports, lab results, and imaging scans
• Notes from your doctors explaining your limitations and diagnosis

3. Describe Your Limitations Clearly

When filling out forms like the Function Report, be specific about how your condition affects your daily life. Instead of writing “I have trouble walking,” give details such as:

“I can only walk 50 feet before I need to rest, and I must use a cane for support.”

Specific examples help SSA understand the full impact of your disability.

4. Avoid Leaving Sections Blank

If a question doesn’t apply to you, write “N/A” instead of leaving it empty. Blank spaces can trigger SSA follow-ups and slow down the process.

5. Double-Check for Accuracy

Mismatched dates, inconsistent details, or missing signatures are common reasons for delays. Review all pages before submitting to ensure everything matches your medical and work records.

6. Submit All Required Forms Together

In Texas, SSDI applications can be filed:

• Online via SSA.gov
• By phone
• In person at a local SSA office

No matter how you apply, make sure all required forms and supporting documents are submitted at the same time to avoid processing gaps.