The SSA Form 787, also known as the "Request for Workers' Compensation/Public Disability Benefit Information," is a crucial document that the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses to gather information about your workers' compensation or public disability benefits. If you're applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, you may need to complete this form as part of the application process. In this article, we'll provide you with five tips to help you complete the SSA Form 787 accurately and efficiently.
Understanding the SSA Form 787
Before we dive into the tips, it's essential to understand the purpose of the SSA Form 787. The SSA uses this form to verify your workers' compensation or public disability benefits, which can affect your eligibility for SSDI or SSI benefits. The form requires you to provide detailed information about your benefits, including the type of benefit, the amount you receive, and the duration of the benefit.
Tip 1: Gather Required Documents and Information
To complete the SSA Form 787 accurately, you'll need to gather specific documents and information. Make sure you have the following:
- Your workers' compensation or public disability benefit award letter
- Your benefit check stubs or payment statements
- Your social security number or claim number
- The name and address of the workers' compensation or public disability benefit administrator
Having this information readily available will save you time and ensure that you provide accurate answers.
Completing the SSA Form 787
Now that you have the required documents and information, let's move on to the next tip.
Tip 2: Answer Questions Carefully and Accurately
When completing the SSA Form 787, it's crucial to answer each question carefully and accurately. Make sure you:
- Read each question carefully before answering
- Provide detailed and specific information
- Avoid guessing or estimating answers
- Use the spaces provided to explain your answers, if necessary
Inaccurate or incomplete answers can delay the processing of your application or even lead to a denial of benefits.
Tip 3: Report All Benefits, Including Lump-Sum Payments
When reporting your workers' compensation or public disability benefits, make sure to include all benefits, including lump-sum payments. The SSA considers lump-sum payments as part of your overall benefit amount, which can affect your eligibility for SSDI or SSI benefits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure that your application is processed efficiently, avoid the following common mistakes:
- Failing to report all benefits, including lump-sum payments
- Providing inaccurate or incomplete information
- Not signing and dating the form
- Not submitting the form with your application
Tip 4: Submit the Form with Your Application
To avoid delays in processing your application, make sure to submit the SSA Form 787 with your SSDI or SSI application. You can submit the form online, by mail, or in person at your local SSA office.
Tip 5: Seek Help if Needed
If you're having trouble completing the SSA Form 787 or have questions about the application process, don't hesitate to seek help. You can:
- Contact the SSA's national customer service number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)
- Visit your local SSA office
- Consult with a social security attorney or advocate
Additional help resources are available on the SSA's website, including a tutorial on completing the SSA Form 787.
Next Steps
After completing and submitting the SSA Form 787, the SSA will review your application and determine your eligibility for SSDI or SSI benefits. If you have any questions or concerns about the status of your application, you can contact the SSA or check your application status online.
We hope these five tips have helped you complete the SSA Form 787 accurately and efficiently. Remember to take your time, gather all required documents and information, and seek help if needed.
What is the SSA Form 787 used for?
+The SSA Form 787 is used to gather information about your workers' compensation or public disability benefits, which can affect your eligibility for SSDI or SSI benefits.
What documents do I need to complete the SSA Form 787?
+You'll need your workers' compensation or public disability benefit award letter, benefit check stubs or payment statements, social security number or claim number, and the name and address of the workers' compensation or public disability benefit administrator.
How do I submit the SSA Form 787?
+You can submit the form online, by mail, or in person at your local SSA office.