Applying for SSDI and SSI is simple but requires some paper work.  To apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) you should call 1800-772-1213 and make an appointment at your local SSA office.  The towns were you can find these field offices are located below each ODAR address.  If you are applying for Social Security Disability (SSDI) you can get a lawyer to help you (some lawyers do not take cases at application).  You can also apply on-line at the SSA website.  Lastly, you can call the 800 number above and make an appointment at the local office.

Here are some statistics that I think most people would be interested in.
The percentage of cases that were denied at application in MT for the year 2006 was 63.5% and the percentage of cases that won was 36.5%.
The percentage of cases that were denied at reconsideration in MT for the year 2006 was 85.2% and the percentage of cases that won was 14.8%.
As you can see the number of cases that were approved was much greater at application than at reconsideration but the overall winning percentage of claims is low.  One reason I believe the reconsideration cases have a higher denial rate is because it seems like it has become like a rubber stamp for the earlier decision.  Another thing you may want to know is about how long it takes to get a decision.  It normally takes anywhere from 3-6 months to get a decision at each of theses stages.  If you do not win at one of these stages than you should request a hearing which can take considerably longer to get a decision.  I have provided the processing time for each of the hearing offices below.

Whether you decide to get a lawyer or representative is a personal choice.  Look at my page that describes how SSA dtermines if you are disabled.  If you feel you have a handle of your case and what you need to prove it then you may not need an attorney.  However, if you decide you are not quite sure about the rules and what you have to prove for your particular case then feel free to click on the link I provided to help you find a lawyer.  For your information most lawyers charge 25% of past due benefits not to exceed $5,300.  They only get paid if you win and get the lesser of the two amounts.