1. Personal Identification Documents

The SSA needs to verify your identity before processing your SSDI claim. Be prepared to submit:

• Your Social Security number
• Birth certificate or other proof of birth (or permanent residency documents if born outside the U.S.)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status (if applicable)
• A valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)

These documents help confirm who you are and that you meet the basic citizenship or residency requirements for SSDI.

2. Employment and Work History Records

Because SSDI eligibility depends partly on your work credits, you’ll need to submit detailed information about your employment history, including:

• A full list of jobs held over the past 15 years
• Dates of employment and job titles
• Description of duties and work environment
• Recent W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns (Schedule C or SE) if applicable

You may also be asked to provide your last pay stubs, especially if you're still working part-time or recently stopped working due to disability.

3. Medical Records and Treatment Information

To prove you meet the SSA’s definition of disability, your application must include:

• Names and contact information for all doctors, clinics, therapists, or hospitals you’ve visited
• Dates of medical treatment
• A list of prescribed medications
• Copies of diagnostic test results, including MRIs, X-rays, bloodwork, etc.
• Written statements from your doctors outlining your limitations, prognosis, and how your condition prevents you from working

If you don't have access to all your records, the SSA can request them on your behalf—but having them in hand can speed up the decision process.

4. SSA-Specific Forms

Several official forms are required as part of your SSDI claim, including:

• SSA-16 – Application for Disability Insurance Benefits
• SSA-3368 – Adult Disability Report (provides detailed medical and work history)
• SSA-827 – Authorization to Disclose Information to the SSA

You can complete these online at ssa.gov or in person at a local SSA office in Washington.

5. Supporting Documentation from Others

In some cases, statements from non-medical sources can strengthen your claim. These may include:

• Letters from former employers describing job duties and performance changes
• Statements from family members or caregivers about how your condition impacts daily life
• Documentation from vocational rehab programs or social workers

While not required, these can help the SSA understand your limitations from multiple perspectives.