Benefits Eligibility Screening Tool (BEST)

The BEST or Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool has been developed to expedite the disability application process by notifying a claimant earlier in the SSDI or SSI process that they do not meet the basic requirements for benefits.

BEST is an interactive, on-line screening tool which allows users to complete a questionnaire. It takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes to complete. It screens for Medicare, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Social Security Retirement, Social Security Survivors benefits, special Veteran's benefits, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. BEST is not used to submit an application to the SSA, simply notify a claimant if they may be eligible to apply.

BEST does not have access to your Social Security records so it will not be able to estimate your payment amount. Nor does it have access to your medical records so while it may be able to determine if you meet the nonmedical requirements for a disability program, the SSA will still have to review your medical records to determine your eligibility. Information which you will have to provide to use BEST includes you and your spouse's dates of births and earnings information and additional financial information to see if you qualify for SSI benefits.