QUESTION: What is the difference between the disability application and the disability report? Do I have to complete both?

ANSWER: The Disability Application is an application for Social Security disability benefits. To receive Social Security disability or Supplemental Security Income disability benefits, one must file an application. The Disability Report, meanwhile, is a form that provides Social Security with information about current medical condition.

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QUESTION: I’ve been turned down for disability benefits. How do I appeal?

ANSWER: Visit www.socialsecurity.gov and click on the “Appeal a disability decision online” link in the left-hand column. This is the starting point. There, medical decisions can be asked to be reviewed. There are two parts to the Internet appeal process:

n An Appeal Request Internet form; and

n An Appeal Disability Report, which gives more information about a person’s condition.

This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. For fast answers to specific Social Security questions, contact Social Security toll-free at 800-772-1213.