Q: What is the difference between the disability application and the disability report? Do I have to complete both?
A: A disability application is a claim for benefits. To receive Social Security disability or Supplemental Security Income benefits, you must file a disability application.
A disability report provides information about your current physical or mental condition. We need this to process your disability application. In all, to establish a claim, you need to submit a disability application, a disability report, and an authorization to release medical records. You can learn more and apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability.
Q: I am applying for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs. Can state agencies help with my Medicare costs?
A: When you file your application for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs, you also can start your application process for the Medicare Savings Programs - state programs that provide help with other Medicare costs. When you apply for Extra Help, Social Security will send information to your state unless you tell us not to on the application. Your state will contact you to help you apply for a Medicare Savings Program.