There are many forms that you will need to fill out during the process of applying for Social Security benefits like SSI or SSDI. A major form that you may have to fill out in the beginning is the SSA-827. This form is essentially meant to allow the Social Security Administration (SSA) to collect facts needed to evaluate your claim, such as your medical records or any personal information such as physical description, other than your name, address, or Social Security number. It may look a bit complicated at first, but filling out Form SSA-827 becomes really easy once you know how to go about it. Here is a step-by-step explanation of how to fill out Form SSA-827 completely.
What is Social Security Form SSA-827 used for?
The Form SSA-827 serves as an “Authorization to Disclose Information.” By signing this form, you are allowing the SSA to collect any records associated with your claim, such as:
- Medical records from your doctors, hospitals, or clinics.
- Employment history from former or current employers.
- School or other educational records if applicable.
The information collected is then used to make a determination of your entitlement to Social Security benefits.
How to fill out Form SSA-827
To complete this form easily, here are the steps you need to follow:
- Start with your personal details
- At the top right corner of the form, enter your full name, Social Security number, and date of birth.
- Leave out psychotherapy notes
- The form does not authorize the SSA to access psychotherapy notes. Do not worry – this type of sensitive information is excluded.
- Do not check the box for managing benefits
- There is a section labeled “Determining if I am capable of managing benefits ONLY.” Leave this box unchecked if you are applying for general benefits like SSI or SSDI.
- Sign the form
- As the individual authorizing disclosure, sign your name at the bottom of the form. If you cannot sign due to a disability or other reason, someone else can sign for you, but they must explain their authority to do so in the space provided.
- Date and provide your address
- Below your signature, write the date and your current mailing address. If you are homeless, you can use a trusted organization’s address or another location where you can receive mail.
- Witness signature
- A witness, such as a case manager, must sign the form. They should also include their phone number in case the SSA needs to contact them for clarification.
Can you complete the form online?
Yes, there is an electronic version of Form SSA-827, called e827. This can be completed during the online application process. For the electronic version:
- The applicant must be present and click to electronically sign the form.
- Even if you complete the e827, it is a good idea to provide a signed paper copy to your local SSA office when submitting your application.
Tips for avoiding mistakes on Form SSA-827
- Double-check your information: Ensure your name, Social Security number, and address are correct.
- Do not fill in the “basis for authority” section unless needed: This is only required if someone else signs on your behalf.
- Use black ink for clarity: If you are filling out the form by hand, use black ink to avoid smudges or readability issues.
