Tips for Success When Working with Social Security

Applying for Social Security benefits can feel complicated, but there are ways to make the process smoother. These tips can help you stay organized, avoid delays, and know when to ask for support.

Getting Help: Using Form SSA-1696 (Authorized Representative)

One of the ways to get support during the application or appeal process is to name an Authorized Representative. This is done using Form SSA-1696, often referred to as “a 1696.”

An Authorized Representative can be:

  • A trusted family member or friend
  • A professional

You can submit Form SSA-1696 at any point in the process: when you apply, after you apply, or later if you realize you need help.

What an Authorized Representative Can Do

Once SSA accepts the form, your representative can:

  • Confirm that your application was received
  • Check whether anything is missing
  • Find out if your case has been sent to Disability Determination Services (DDS)
  • Request updates on the status of your case
  • Help communicate with SSA
  • Support you in gathering and sharing information
What If I Get Denied?

If your application is denied, you are not alone. Some people are denied the first time they apply. A denial does not mean you don’t qualify. It often means SSA needs more information or clarification.

Your Options

File an Appeal

  • Appealing allows you to keep your original application date
  • You can submit new or updated information

Important Deadline: You generally have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to file an appeal (SSA also allows 5 extra days for mailing). If you miss this deadline, you may have to start a new application.

Consider Hiring a Lawyer

Some people choose to work with a lawyer, especially during appeals. This can help because:

  • Lawyers understand SSA rules and paperwork
  • They can help catch errors or missing information
  • If a hearing with a judge is needed, they can guide you through that process

Most Social Security lawyers are paid only if you win, and their fees are regulated by SSA.

Appeals take time. It may be many months (sometimes a year or more) before you hear the next decision. Waiting is hard, but it is a normal part of the process.

Redeterminations and Reviews

From time to time, SSA reviews cases to make sure people still qualify for benefits. These reviews are normal and do not mean you did anything wrong.

Common Reasons for Reviews

  •  Turning 18 - If a child receives SSI, SSA must review the case when they turn 18. This is called Age-18 Redetermination, and it uses adult disability rules instead of children’s rules.

  • Scheduled or Event-Based Reviews - SSA may review a case if:

    • A disability is expected to improve
    • Someone gets married or divorced
    • A representative payee changes
       

  • Random Reviews - Some reviews happen randomly as part of SSA’s quality checks.

Other Items to Be Aware Of

Audits

Audits can happen at any point. These are usually checks on SSA’s own processes.

Changes in Payment Amounts

Your benefit amount can change for many reasons, including:

  • Other income you receive
  • Changes in household size

Reporting Changes Is Very Important

Always report changes as soon as possible, including:

  • Address changes
  • Income (earned or unearned)
  • Marriage or divorce

Not reporting changes can lead to:

  • Paused or stopped payments
  • Denials due to missed mail
  • Overpayments that SSA may ask you to repay later

Income should be reported in the same month it is earned or received.

Mistakes Happen

SSA systems are complex, and errors do occur. If something doesn’t look right:

  • Call SSA
  • Visit your local Social Security office
  • Ask for help correcting the issue

Don’t Forget

  • Check your mail regularly
  • Don’t be afraid to repeat information
  • Keep copies of everything
  • Ask for help when you need it
  • Be patient with the process