During this stage, the applicant will complete their initial application for Social Security disability benefits either by applying online, by telephone, or in person with the Social Security Administration (SSA).  After submitting a completed application, the SSA will evaluate the claim to determine whether or not the applicant qualifies for benefits.   More than half of applications are denied during this stage of the process.  However, if an applicant is unsuccessful during this stage of the process, it does not mean that their claim is invalid or that they will never receive disability benefits.  Many applicants who have had their initial claim for benefits denied have gone on to receive disability benefits during one of the four other stages of the application process.