How to Complete SSA-827 Form for SSDI: A Step-by-Step Guide

SSA-827 Form: Your Key to a Faster SSDI Claim 

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can feel overwhelming. There’s the process of tracking down medical records, understanding deadlines, waiting times, and quite some paperwork. Among the forms in the process, form SSA-827 (Authorization to Disclose Information to the Social Security Administration (SSA), is a staple in the disability application and appeals process.  

This form allows your doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers to share your medical records with the SSA. It’s a vital step in building a strong disability claim, and it ensures that the SSA gets the information they need without unnecessary delays. 

Let’s break down everything you need to know about the SSA-827 form and how to complete it correctly to avoid common mistakes. 

What Is the Form SSA-827? 

The SSA-827 is an official authorization form that lets healthcare providers release your medical records to the SSA. These records are essential for determining whether you meet the requirements for SSDI benefits. Without them, the SSA can’t accurately evaluate your claim, which could lead to delays—or worse, a denial. 

When you sign the SSA-827, you’re giving the SSA permission to contact your healthcare providers directly to obtain medical records related to your claim. This makes the process much more efficient and reduces the risk of missing or incomplete information that could hold up your case. 

Why Is This Form So Important? 

1. It Helps Streamline the Process 

Gathering your own medical records can be stressful. It means contacting multiple doctors, clinics, or hospitals and hoping they send the right documents. By signing the SSA-827, you allow the SSA to handle this for you. They’ll request the records directly from your healthcare providers, which saves you time and effort. 

This also speeds up your claim. The SSA knows exactly what they need to evaluate your case, and they can work more efficiently when they don’t have to wait for you to submit records. 

2. It Ensures Accuracy 

When you gather and submit your own records, there’s always the chance that something gets missed or isn’t current. With form SSA-827, Social Security can get the records straight from the source (your doctors and/or health insurance), ensuring they have the most accurate and up-to-date information about your health. 

3. It Helps Protect Your Privacy 

Worried about sharing sensitive medical information? The SSA-827 is designed with privacy in mind. It complies with HIPAA regulations, so your records are only used to evaluate your SSDI claim.  

You can also specify exactly what information is shared, keeping everything under your control. 

How to Fill Out the SSA-827 Form 

Completing the SSA-827 form might seem straightforward, but small mistakes can lead to delays. Here’s how to get it right: 

  1. Start with your personal information: Clearly write your full name and Social Security number. Double-check this section—simple errors like a typo can create unnecessary problems. 
  2. Be specific: List the names of your doctors, clinics, or hospitals, along with the dates of service. You can also specify which records the SSA should access if you don’t want to release everything.  However, be aware that under the law, you are required to disclose to SSA all relevant information about your case, even medical sources that may not be favorable to your disability application.  
  3. Read the form carefully: Always make sure that you understand what you’re agreeing to before signing. This protects your rights and ensures the SSA only gets the information they need. 
  4. Check for completeness: Missing details usually tend to delay your claim, so double-check the form before submitting it. 


Submitting the SSA-827 Form
 

Once your form is complete, you’ll need to submit it to the SSA. You have three options: 

  • Mail it: Send the completed form to the address provided by the SSA. 
  • Drop it off: Hand-deliver the form to your local SSA office. 
  • Submit it online: If you’re applying digitally, you may have the option to upload the form through your account on the SSA’s website. 


Always keep a copy of the form for your records. This can be useful if there are any issues later on.
 

Because this form eventually expires, be aware that at each level of the appeals process, SSA will ask you to complete a new SSA-827 

The SSA-827 form plays a crucial role in your SSDI application. Allowing the SSA to directly request your medical records simplifies the process, ensures accuracy, and helps protect your privacy. 

Trajector Disability offers comprehensive support throughout the disability claim process. Our team of experts can help you determine your eligibility, gather all necessary evidence, prepare and submit your application, and guide you through the appeals process if your claim is denied. Get your FREE Consultation today.  

What Happens If the Form Is Incomplete? 

If the SSA-827 isn’t filled out correctly, it could slow down your claim significantly. Missing information or unclear instructions can lead to delays as the SSA contacts you to clarify or complete the form. 

In some cases, repeated errors can even result in a denied claim.  

That’s why it’s crucial to take your time with the form and ensure all the details are accurate before submission. 

FAQs About the SSA-827

Do I have to sign the SSA-827?

Yes. Without this form, the SSA can't request the medical records they need to evaluate your claim.

Can I limit what records the SSA gets?

Absolutely. You can specify what records they can access and for what time period. However, be aware that under the law, you are required to disclose to SSA all relevant information about your case, even medical sources that may not be favorable to your disability application.

Is my information secure?

Yes. The SSA uses secure systems to handle your medical records, and the SSA-827 complies with federal privacy laws like HIPAA.

Helpful Links

  • Download SSA-827 Form 
  • SSA Privacy Policy 
  • HIPAA Guidelines
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