How to Apply for Disability Benefits

Migraine is the second leading cause of disability in the United States, accounting for more than 5.5% of all disability. However, only 0.3% of people who apply for SSDI do so because of migraine. Those who apply are only half as likely to have their application approved as those with a different disease or disorder. However, there is now a document which provides guidance to those with migraine on how to apply for SSDI.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides assistance when someone develops a disability or illness which makes them unable to work. You can apply for SSDI benefits online or by calling the National Social Security Administration office toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213. The Social Security Administration (SSA) recommends that applicants review the Adult Disability Checklist to collect the documents and information to complete the application ahead of time. You will need as much documentation as you can from your neurologist and all healthcare professionals, hospitals, clinics, test results and treatments. A list of all medications, who prescribed them, and why. You will also need to provide information about your work history. This includes information about education and job training. Your application won't be considered if you don't have enough work history. It can take 3 to 5 months for a decision to be made.

If you are initially denied SSI, you can appeal the decision by resubmitting your evidence with new medical records and claim forms. You have 60 days from the date you received the denial to appeal. The SSA will then make a second ruling. If this ruling is denied, you can have your request reviewed by the Appeals Council. A disability lawyer can assist with this process.

For more information on applying for disability with migraine, please see migraine foundation.org, "How to Apply for Social Security Disability with Migraine."