New Jersey residents with disabilities can access aid through two federal programs, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both programs offer financial assistance in the form of monthly payments for those who qualify.

In addition to federal services, people in New Jersey may also qualify for state unemployment benefits, TDI (Temporary Disability Insurance), Medicaid, or workers’ compensation.

Although SSDI and SSI are federal programs, they are run through the New Jersey Disability Determination Services (DDS). This department is a branch of the state Department of Labor and Workforce Development. New Jersey has 24 Social Security offices and three Offices of Hearings and Appeals (OHA).

Facts About New Jersey

New Jersey is home to more than 1.6 million people who have some sort of disability, which is about 23% of its population. Even with state and federal aid programs, many in the disability community still are not receiving assistance, with only 3.4% of New Jersey residents receiving Social Security disability benefits.

Those with a disability should apply for any program they think they may qualify for as most health insurance plans fall short of supplying the assistance that’s truly needed.

How To Qualify for SSDI in New Jersey

All SSDI recipients across the country must meet the same criteria since the program is federally funded. In New Jersey an applicant must meet the following criteria:

• You have worked long enough as an employee or self-employed and paid federal income tax
• You do not have to be currently working, but if you are, your wages can’t be over $1,310 a month
• Note: New Jersey workers are protected from disability discrimination in the workplace. If you currently hold a job and you have a disability, your employer is required to make any reasonable accommodations to assist you in completing your job.
• Your disability limits your ability to perform work for at least 12 months. These can be physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities.
• Your condition is found in the Blue Book compiled by the Social Security Administration. These conditions have all been deemed severe enough to impair the ability to work and warrant disability coverage.

Even if all criteria are met, you are still not guaranteed SSDI benefits. Your application must still be reviewed by DDS along with any relevant documentation and evidence to support your disability claim.

How To Apply for SSDI in New Jersey

There are three main ways to file for Social Security Disability: online, over the phone, or in person.

You can improve the chances of having your claim approved and speed up the application process by preparing documents and evidence ahead of time. Below is a general list, and you may need to provide more based on your specific circumstances:

• Personal information: About you, your spouse, and your minor children like full names, and dates and places of birth
• Marriage and divorce records
• Military records
• Current employment or self-employment information
• Bank account information for direct deposit
• Personal or professional references like a doctor or family member who can certify your conditions
• Medical history of your disability like records of physical and mental health, tests, and names of doctors
• Job and education history

Those who wish to apply online will do so on SSA.gov. You may also choose to call the federal Social Security office at 800-772-1213. If you prefer to make your application in person you should call your local New Jersey field office for assistance. Most offices require that you make an appointment before showing up.

How to Appeal a Denial in New Jersey

Unfortunately, the vast majority (around 80%) of initial New Jersey disability claims are denied. This is why if you are a disabled individual it’s essential to ensure you’re fully eligible and you have enough supporting documentation. If you are denied, you can and should begin the appeals process to have your claim reevaluated.

1. Reconsideration – Within 60 of your initial denial, you can request to have a new SSA representative from the DDS review your initial claim to make a revised determination.
2. Disability Hearing – The next step is to request a hearing with an administrative law judge. Like reconsideration, this request must be made within 60 days of your previous denial. Your hearing will be scheduled to happen in person at your closest SSA Hearing Office in Jersey City, Newark, or Pennsauken. You will likely be asked to bring additional documentation about their disability, and many people choose to obtain legal advice at this point.
3. Appeals Council – If your second appeal was denied, you have 60 days to request the Social Security Appeals Council review your case. The council may or may not take your case based on an initial review of the previous decisions.
4. Federal Court – The last course of redress is to file a lawsuit by appealing to the district federal court. At this point, you will need an attorney to help file your claim.

Temporary Disability Applications in New Jersey

In New Jersey, those who cannot work due to a non-work-related injury, illness, or pregnancy can apply for temporary disability benefits through the Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) program. This program is designed to provide financial support to eligible workers temporarily unable to work and earn wages. To initiate a temporary disability application in NJ, eligible employees must first notify their employers about their condition and inability to work. Following this, they can file a claim for temporary disability insurance benefits with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

Temporary disability benefits typically cover up to two-thirds of that person’s average weekly wage, with a maximum weekly benefit amount set by the state. The duration of the benefits may vary depending on the medical condition and the healthcare provider’s certification of the disability. Individuals may receive benefits for up to 26 weeks in a benefit year.

Please note that temporary disability insurance is distinct from Paid Family Leave (PFL) benefits in New Jersey. Paid Family Leave provides wage replacement benefits to eligible employees who need time off to care for a seriously ill family member or to bond with a new child (including adoption or foster care). Both temporary disability and paid family leave benefits are funded through employee payroll deductions. For employees who require longer-term disability coverage beyond the 26 weeks, they may need to explore other options, such as short-term disability insurance or private long-term disability insurance plans.

The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development is responsible for administering disability benefits in the state. Their website provides comprehensive information about the temporary disability application process, eligibility criteria, and frequently asked questions to assist applicants.

How Does Long-Term Disability Work in New Jersey?

Long-term disability coverage provides financial protection for people unable to work due to a serious illness or injury that extends beyond the scope of short- or mid-term disability benefits.

Long-term disability benefits in New Jersey are typically provided through private insurance policies or employer-sponsored group plans. These benefits are meant to replace a portion of your income when you can’t work for an extended period—usually lasting for several months to several years or even until retirement age.

For long-term disability, the disability’s duration is important, as it must exceed the waiting period specified in the policy, usually ranging from 90 to 180 days.

Applying for long-term disability benefits in New Jersey typically involves submitting a claim to the insurance company or the employer’s benefits administrator. The application process may require medical records, healthcare provider documentation, and other relevant evidence to support the disability claim. It’s important to carefully review the specific requirements outlined in the policy and ensure that all necessary information is included in the application.

One key difference between short- or mid-term disability and long-term disability is the duration of coverage. Short-term disability benefits typically last a few weeks to several months, while mid-term disability coverage extends up to one year. However, long-term disability benefits can provide coverage for an extended period, ranging from several months to years.

More New Jersey Benefits

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another disability program run by the SSA. Like SSDI, SSI provides monthly cash benefits for New Jersey residents, but you do not necessarily have to have a disability to qualify. SSI benefits are reserved for low-income individuals who are either blind, disabled, or over the age of 65.

New Jersey Medicaid

Those who qualify for SSI in New Jersey automatically qualify for New Jersey Medicaid. Once you are approved for SSI you will get a separate letter of acceptance from Medicaid outlining your benefits. Medicaid is for those with permanent disabilities, pregnant women, families with dependent children, or seniors 65 and older. The income requirements for regular Medicaid for a single person are $1,073 a month.

New Jersey Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance

New Jersey Temporary Disability Benefits (TDI) is a division of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development. This program provides a cash benefit to those who temporarily can’t work due to an illness or injury that is not work related.

If your employer has a state plan you’ll apply online, and if they have a private plan from an insurance company your employer will instruct you how to apply. The program also provides paid maternity or paternity leave for a worker to bond with a new child, or medical leave to take care of an ill family member or one who has been exposed to a communicable disease.

To qualify, you need to have made payments into the program, and also meet gross earning requirements (at least $11,000 in a calendar year, or an average weekly wage of at least $220). The employee contribution rate is currently at 0.47% of an employee’s taxable wage base. The payroll deduction to pay these cannot exceed $649.54 per year. An eligible employee is then paid 85% of their average weekly wage with a maximum of $903 per week.

New Jersey Unemployment

New Jersey Unemployment benefits provide temporary benefits in the form of a weekly payout to those who have lost their job through no fault of their own. The program is run through the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development and is funded through employer contribution via payroll tax. The maximum weekly benefit is $713 and can be collected for up to 26 weeks.

New Jersey Social Security Offices

New Jersey Hearing and Appeal Offices

New Jersey is in Region 2 (New York), which services New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands. 

If you’re a Nevada resident with a disability, there are services at the state and national level that can provide much needed support. 

Federal assistance is available through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), both run by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

While these programs are available to all Americans, applications are processed at the state level. In Nevada, the Bureau of Disability Adjudication (BDA) reviews applications. This agency works under the Nevada Department of Employment, Training & Rehabilitation (DETR).

In addition to these Social Security disability benefits, a Nevada resident may also qualify for Medicaid, unemployment insurance, or get help finding employment through the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Facts About Nevada

About 32% of Nevada’s population has a disability of one kind or another. However, only 3.2% of the state’s population is currently receiving Social Security benefits. This means that many people who might qualify for disability benefits aren’t getting them.

In Nevada, a full 15% of the population suffers from a mobility-related disability and 13% suffer from a cognition-related disability. These high numbers make it imperative that those with a long-term disability get the assistance they need.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Nevada

The SSA defines qualifying criteria for those seeking disability services. These requirements are the same from state to state, though the applications are reviewed at the state level. Nevada approves approximately 34% of all first-time applications which is close to the national average of 35%.

There are two main criteria that you must meet to be considered for assistance. First, you must have a disability that prevents your ability to work for at least 12 months. The SSA has compiled a comprehensive list of all the disabilities it will approve for benefits.

It’s strongly recommended you consult this list before applying to ensure you meet the minimum requirements for your disability claim. It’s very rare to receive an exemption if your disability is not listed.

The second requirement is that you must show that you’ve contributed to the Social Security fund through your work history. For most people, this means 10 years of employment, though you may be able to receive a waiver if your disability makes it impossible to work in any capacity.

Many people who are disabled are still able to work in some capacity. This will not bar you from receiving aid, though there are income caps. Currently, a disabled person cannot be making more than $1,310 a month and still qualify. If you’re a disabled worker, know that your employer must comply with all anti-discrimination federal laws and make reasonable accommodations to help you complete your job duties.

How To Apply for SSDI in Nevada

An applicant must send their request for Social Security Disability to the Social Security Administration (SSA). You can choose to apply online at the federal Social Security website, or over the phone by calling 800-772-1213.

Those who wish to apply in person can do so at their local Social Security field office. In Nevada, there are four offices to choose from in Reno, Henderson, Las Vegas, and North Las Vegas. You should call first to make an appointment. Your application will then be forwarded to the Nevada BDA.

When you apply, you’ll be asked to provide basic personal information about you and your spouse and any minor children. You will need to provide relevant documentation of marriages, divorces, military service, or if you’re the surviving spouse of a veteran.

If you are a disabled veteran, you may be eligible for further benefits from the VA. You will need to show medical records supporting your disability claim and information about any other relevant medical condition.

How To Appeal a Denial in Nevada

Since only 34% of applications are approved the first time, a claimant should be ready to proceed with the appeals process. There are four levels to appealing your claim and each step must be completed before moving on to the next. You have 60 from the time you receive your denial to start the next step of appeals.

Reconsideration

During the reconsideration phase, you won’t have to provide any additional paperwork. A new disability examiner will look at your initial application to see if an error was made in the first review. Around 13% of applications receive approval at this stage.

Disability Hearing

Unfortunately, many people will be denied again during reconsideration and must move on to step two. At this stage, you can request a disability hearing with an administrative law judge.

There are two Hearing and Appeals offices in Nevada, one in Reno and one in Las Vegas. Your hearing will be scheduled at the closest location and you’ll often be asked to bring additional supporting documentation or witnesses. Many people choose to employ a disability lawyer at this point. Around 42% of cases are approved at this stage.

Appeals Council

The third level is to appeal with the Social Security Appeals Council. The purpose of this council is to review all lower determinations to see if a mistake was made.

Federal Court

The final level of appeal is to file a lawsuit at the district federal court in Nevada with locations in Las Vegas and Reno.

More Nevada Benefits

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another federal insurance program intended mostly for those with lower incomes. SSI benefits are available to those with disabilities, who are blind, and seniors over 65 years old. All applicants must meet low income and limited resources requirements. When you apply for SSDI your application will automatically be reviewed to see if you also qualify for SSI.

Nevada Medicaid

The income requirements for SSI are similar to Nevada Medicaid, and many who qualify for one will qualify for the other. Medicaid is run by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and provides health insurance to Nevadans of any age who meet income requirements. Recipients of Nevada Medicaid currently have no copay obligation.

Nevada Unemployment

In addition to a disability benefit, residents may also qualify for Nevada Unemployment benefits. This program is intended for temporary financial help to those who have lost their job through no fault of their own. The program has a maximum weekly payout of $483 for up to 26 weeks.

Nevada Social Security Offices

Nevada Hearing and Appeal Offices

Nevada is in Region 9 (San Francisco), which services Arizona, California, Hawaii, and Nevada.

Pennsylvanians who cannot work because of a medical condition may be eligible to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to help meet their basic financial needs. 

In addition to these two programs, Pennsylvania offers other programs to assist low-income workers and disabled adults.

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Facts About Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, 23.9% of adults have a disability that prevents them from working. The largest age group of adults on disability are 65 or older. While several disabilities prevent adults from working, the two main categories in Pennsylvania are mobility disabilities and cognitive disabilities.

Pennsylvania has several disability benefits programs to care for the medical needs of disabled adults. This focus on wellness is likely because disabled Pennsylvanians are twice as likely to be inactive. Additionally, 32.3% of disabled adults are smokers, and 42.3% are obese, both higher than the national average.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Pennsylvania

To qualify for SSDI in Pennsylvania, the applicant must be a worker, a widow of a worker, or an adult child of a worker and have a medical disability that makes it impossible to work. This medical condition must have lasted for at least one year, will last for at least one year, or likely cause the individual’s death. For children, the medical condition must severely reduce their ability to function and for the same duration as mentioned above.

Your disability must prevent you from working entirely. You cannot work part-time or in temporary status and receive Social Security disability benefits. But you must have worked for a qualifying number of years and paid social security taxes in recent years before your injury or illness.

If you can still work, but at a severely reduced amount, you may qualify for SSI which aids senior citizens and disabled workers with little or no income.

How To Apply for SSDI in Pennsylvania

There are a few ways to apply for SSDI in Pennsylvania: online, at your local Social Security office, or by calling 1-800-772-1213. You will need to fill out the Form SSA-16 application and submit medical records and other supporting documentation.

The online system is the fastest and most convenient way to apply. Be sure to gather all required documents and information before beginning the application and plan to complete it in one to two hours.

The application contains four parts:

• Background Information
• Disability Information
• Sign a Medical Release
• Confirm Application Submission

After completing the background information section, the system will provide you with a Re-entry Number, your PIN, to get back into your application should you need to save and finish later. After completing the application and submitting it, be sure to print your confirmation page for your records.

If you need someone to help you to complete the application, you can do so. The helper does not have to be an officially appointed representative, but if you would like to set that up, you can do so through a Form SSA-1696-64. You will need to initiate the claim and sign it, but if you can’t do it online or are not present with your helper, the SSA will mail you the application to sign.

Here is a list of documentation you may need to complete your application for disability benefits. The Social Security representative will need to see the original document, but you can submit copies with the disability claim and keep your originals. 

• Social Security Card and Birth Certificate
• Contact information for all doctors with treatment dates
• Current medication list
• Medical records
• X-rays, test results, labs
• Work information from past 15 years (supervisors contact information and job duties)
• Tax documents (W2s, tax return) from the previous year
• Prior marriage dates
• Bank information for direct deposit
• Injury documents such as workers compensation documents, if applicable

After your application for Social Security disability benefits is submitted, the SSA will validate your basic eligibility. Next, your application will go through a medical review to determine whether your documented disability prevents you from working. Factors considered are information about your condition, such as when it started, what treatments you have had, how it limits you, and your progress. You might need to attend other exams or tests, but they will be at no cost to you and administered by a Social Security contracted agency.

Once the SSA has made its decision, they will notify you in writing.

How To Appeal a Denial in Pennsylvania

If your application for SSDI benefits is denied, you have the right to appeal through a social security disability hearing. The Office of Disability Adjudication and Review will schedule your hearing for an Administrative Law Judge to review your case for reconsideration.

You will present any new evidence and can give your testimony and statements from witnesses. Hearings occur in person at one of many local hearing offices, or you can attend the hearing through a teleconference. An attorney is authorized to represent you. You may want to consult a social security disability lawyer to help you through the process because of their experience and knowledge with SSD benefits claims.

The deadline to request an appeal is 60 days from the day you received your disability determination letter. Written requests should be sent to your local field office or the address indicated on your decision letter.

More Pennsylvania Benefits

Pennsylvania offers benefits and services other than Social Security disability benefits to help workers who need assistance due to lack of work. Although the application process may be similar, each benefit has specific eligibility criteria and application procedures.

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program that provides financial assistance to senior citizens and disabled persons with little or no income. SSI is funded by general taxes and not directly from Social Security taxes. Its purpose is to meet basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter.

To qualify for SSI, you must have limited income and assets. The application process and documents required are like the SSDI process. And like SSDI, you have the right to appeal a denied claim. 

Your monthly SSI compensation amount depends upon your living situation, marital status, and other income amounts. The state of Pennsylvania gives an additional benefit amount on top of what is awarded by the federal government. The two payments are issued as one monthly compensation payment.

Pennsylvania Medicaid

Pennsylvania Medicaid, also called Medical Assistance, is available to Pennsylvania residents who qualify as low or very low income. In addition to income limits, applicants must have a disability or be pregnant to receive Medical Assistance.

You may be required to share the cost through copayments, depending on your situation. You can apply for Medical Assistance online through the COMPASS system or in person at your local County Assistance Office.

Pennsylvania Unemployment

The Pennsylvania Office of Unemployment implemented a new online system in June 2021 dedicated to simplifying and speeding up the application process. There are new self-service functions that reduce the need to contact an unemployment representative.

Pennsylvania unemployment benefits are available to workers who have lost a job through no fault of their own or have a reduction in full-time hours. Qualified workers are encouraged to submit their initial claim as soon as possible through the online system, paper application mailed to the local office, or over the phone at 1-888-313-7284. 

After filing your initial claim, you will need to file a continued claim biweekly for the duration of your unemployment period. A financial determination letter will be mailed to you in about 10-15 business days from your initial file date to inform you of your weekly benefit amount and the length of time you will receive it.

How Do Short-Term Benefits in Pennsylvania Work?

If you need financial assistance in Pennsylvania, short-term benefits can provide temporary relief during challenging times. Short-term benefits in Pennsylvania primarily include programs such as:

1. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

TANF provides cash assistance to eligible low-income families with children. This program aims to help families meet their basic needs, such as housing, food, and clothing, during financial hardship. TANF benefits are typically provided for a limited period, and recipients are expected to work or participate in work-related activities as a condition of receiving assistance.

2. General Assistance (GA)

GA offers short-term financial support to individuals who are temporarily unable to work due to a disability, injury, or other barriers. It helps individuals meet their immediate needs, such as housing, utilities, and transportation, during a difficult period. GA benefits are generally provided for a limited duration, and recipients may be required to participate in work or training programs when able.

How Can I Apply?

The application process for short-term benefits in Pennsylvania typically involves providing documentation to establish eligibility, such as proof of income, identification, and information about household composition. The application forms can be obtained from local county assistance offices or submitted online through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services website.

It’s important to note that short-term benefits differ from other benefit applications, such as long-term disability or healthcare programs. Short-term benefits provide immediate assistance during a crisis or transitional period. In contrast, long-term benefits focus on ongoing support for individuals with chronic conditions or enduring challenges.

Unlike long-term benefit applications, short-term benefit programs generally have shorter approval timelines. Once your application is submitted, it can take a few weeks to a couple of months to receive a decision. However, the processing time can vary depending on factors such as the volume of applications being reviewed and the complexity of your case.

To ensure a smooth application process, provide all the necessary documentation accurately and promptly. If you have any questions or need assistance during the application process, you can reach out to your local county assistance office or consult with a social worker who can guide you through the application process.

Keep in mind that short-term benefits are designed to provide temporary support and typically have specific eligibility criteria and time limits. It’s important to explore long-term benefit options if you require ongoing assistance or have a chronic condition that impacts your ability to work or meet basic needs.

Navigating the benefits system can be overwhelming, but reaching out for help and understanding the available programs can make the process smoother. By taking advantage of short-term benefits in Pennsylvania, you can gain temporary financial relief during challenging times and work towards a stable and secure future.

Pennsylvania Social Security Offices

Pennsylvania Hearing and Appeal Offices

Pennsylvania is in Region 3 (Philadelphia), which services Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and District of Columbia.

Pennsylvania Disability Insurance Benefits

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available to disabled adults who can no longer work due to a medical condition. The benefit can also be paid to a widow or adult child of the worker. To submit a disability claim, individuals must submit a Form SSA-16 through the online system or at their local Social Security field office. If the claim is denied, the applicant has the right to appeal and request a social security disability hearing.

For disabled workers who can work but at a reduced capacity, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program can provide financial assistance to help meet basic needs. Pennsylvania gives an additional benefit amount on top of the benefit amount awarded by the federal government. Applicants should visit their local Social Security office for more information.

In addition to these two programs, qualified Pennsylvania residents may be eligible for Medical Assistance or Unemployment Compensation to help them during a financial crisis. Contact your local County Assistance Office for guidance on available programs.

Disabled Massachusetts residents have several options for seeking Social Security benefits and financial assistance. The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) is a state agency that works under the federal Social Security Administration (SSA) to implement Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Working under the Massachusetts Commission, the Disability Determination Services (DDS) evaluates all applications to determine what disability services are awarded.

Massachusetts also offers disability benefits at the state level with programs such as MassHealth (Medicaid), CHIP, and unemployment services. These services can cover children, students, adults, and seniors with and without disabilities.

Facts About Massachusetts

About one in four Massachusetts residents have some sort of disability, but only a fraction of those are receiving SSDI benefits or other state-run assistance or compensation services.

Currently, approximately 4.5% of people with a physical or developmental disability receive disability payments from the SSA. The majority of Massachusetts’ disabled population suffers from cognitive disabilities such as autism or a brain injury, followed closely by those with mobility issues.

The state currently spends around 37% of its healthcare resources on those with disabilities. Find out today if you can qualify for these programs to take advantage of these essential human services.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Massachusetts

Criteria for qualifying Social Security Disability is the same across the country since SSDI is a federally funded program. However, the disability determination is made at the state level. Roughly half of all first-time applications will be denied. There is a process for appealing this decision, but you can improve your chances by ensuring upfront that you meet all the requirements.

Social Security disability benefits are reserved for workers who have worked long enough (earned enough “credits”) to pay into the Social Security tax system. Your disability must be considered “severe” enough to limit your ability to work for at least 12 months.

A list of conditions can be found here. Your condition must be found on this list to qualify for benefits, and it is strongly recommended you consult this list before applying. It also must be determined that you cannot reasonably switch over to another line of employment.

It should be noted that by law an employer is required to make any reasonable accommodation to help you complete your job since you are protected from disability discrimination in the workplace.

How To Apply for SSDI in Massachusetts

Applications for SSDI in Massachusetts must be made to your local Social Security office. You can do this online, over the phone, or in person. There are 30 local offices in the state that can offer assistance. You can apply online at the federal Social Security website, or call (800) 772-1213 for help over the phone. If you wish to apply in person at a Massachusetts office, find your closest location in this list below and call to schedule an appointment.

As an applicant, you will need to prepare documentation and evidence ahead of time to support your disability claim. These include but are not limited to:

• Personal information like Social Security number, birth certificate or permanent residence card, vital information for you, your spouse, and a minor child
• Medical records concerning your disability including contact information for doctors, caseworkers, or clinics. This applies to physical, developmental, and intellectual disabilities
• Past and current employment information

How To Appeal a Denial in Massachusetts

Unfortunately, many people will be denied benefits with their first application. The appeals process can be long, with many requests for a hearing taking over a year. It’s important to appeal as soon as you receive a denial. The appeals process is broken up into four levels.

Level 1: Reconsideration – Within 60 days you can request that a new SSA representative review your application.

Level 2: Disability Adjudication – Within 60 days of a denial from reconsideration, you can request a formal hearing with an administrative law judge. This can take upwards of a year. At this hearing, you will likely bring additional documentation and witnesses who can attest to the severity of your disability. You may wish to contact a law firm and consult with a Social Security disability lawyer at this stage.

Level 3: Appeal Council – Within another 60-day window, you have the opportunity to request an Appeals Council review previous decisions. At this stage, you will likely need a disability lawyer to represent you.

Level 4: District Court – This is the last option for appeal. At this level, you will request that a federal district court review the Appeals Court decision. There is only one federal district court in Massachusetts, located in Boston.

More Massachusetts Benefits

SSI

Many people who qualify for SSDI will also qualify for SSI benefits. When you apply for SSDI, the SSA will determine concurrently if you are also eligible for SSI. SSI is for disabled adults, blind or disabled children, or those age 65+ with or without disabilities. All applicants must be low income (an individual must be making less than $814 a month in unearned income).

You may also be eligible under the Massachusetts State Supplement Program (SSP) which can add on to SSI payments, or supply payments if your income is too high to receive SSI. Statewide Employment Services (SES) and Project IMPACT are advocacy groups that provide free counseling to those receiving SSI payments. They also ensure those with disabilities have an equal opportunity when getting back into the workforce.

Massachusetts Medicaid

Massachusetts Medicaid (MassHealth) is health insurance available to any person earning less than $17,131 a month. This insurance covers standard doctor and hospital visits, mental health services, pharmacy, and home health among others. Most people who qualify for SSI will qualify for MassHealth.

Massachusetts Unemployment

Those who have lost their job through no fault of their own can apply for Massachusetts unemployment benefits, managed by the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance. Any employee who has earned enough income during their base period, who is actively looking for new work, and who is willing and able to take on new work is eligible.

What About Short-Term Disability in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts provides various short-term disability programs to support individuals facing temporary disabilities. As a rule of thumb, Massachusetts provides about 3-6 months of partial pay for temporarily-disabled individuals.

Short-Term Disability Programs in Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers several short-term disability programs, including the Massachusetts State Short-Term Disability Insurance (SDI) program and employer-sponsored disability plans. The Massachusetts SDI program provides income replacement for individuals unable to work due to non-work-related injuries, illnesses, or disabilities.

Employer-sponsored plans vary depending on the employer, providing temporary income replacement during a disability. Eligibility requirements, benefit duration, and payment amounts may differ between programs, emphasizing the importance of reviewing specific program details and consulting with employers or insurance providers.

Applying for Short-Term Disability Benefits

To apply for short-term disability benefits in Massachusetts, individuals must complete an application form and provide relevant medical documentation. This includes medical records, diagnosis details, treatment plans, and work restrictions from healthcare professionals. Some programs may require a waiting period before benefits begin. It is recommended to gather all necessary documentation, thoroughly review the application process, and ensure timely submission to expedite the benefits application.

Massachusetts Social Security Offices

Massachusetts Hearing and Appeal Offices

Massachusetts is in Region 1 (Boston), which services Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

Social Security disability benefits are available for Minnesotans who meet certain requirements. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides disability benefits to Americans who are unable to work due to their disability. There are two Social Security benefits programs available for residents of Minnesota.

The first Social Security program is the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI benefits are available for people with disabilities who have paid Social Security taxes. Supplemental Security Income (SSI), on the other hand, is available for low-income Americans who are disabled, pregnant, or over age 65.

Facts About Minnesota

There are over 3 million residents in Minnesota. Approximately 3.4% receive monthly checks from the Social Security Administration in the form of disability insurance payments. The SSA and Minnesota’s Disability Determination Services work together to process disability claims and disability payments.

According to the CDC, about 21.7% of the Minnesota adult population live with one disability or the other. 9.5% of the adults in Minnesota have mobility issues, while 9.7% of the adults in the state have problems with cognition. 4.9% of the adults in Minnesota have problems living independently, while another 6.1% have hearing disabilities.

Approximately 3% of Minnesota’s adult population have visual impairment disabilities, and 2.7% of the adult population of Minnesota have self-care disabilities. To take care of these members of the population, the state has different resources, including Disability Hub MN, an online resource for the disabled.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Minnesota

Every employee or self-employed resident of Minnesota who paid into the Social Security trust fund through payroll taxes can benefit from SSDI. Such a person should have paid into the trust fund for five years within the last ten years or have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI.

There are also some medical requirements for Social Security disability benefits, according to federal disability law. A developmental disability, a long-term disability, mental illness, and other limiting medical conditions qualify you for SSDI in Minnesota.

To qualify for SSDI, a person must show proof that their disability will last for at least a year or result in death.

If a disabled employee of an organization can continue to work under reasonable accommodations, the employee might not qualify for SSDI. Also, SSA does not provide short-term disability insurance.

If you have been injured at work, the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry administers a workers compensation program for people with work-related disabilities. The law mandates every employer to have workers’ compensation insurance or be self-insured to take care of work-related injuries and illnesses of their staff.

How To Apply for SSDI in Minnesota

If you want to make a disability claim in Minnesota, you must send your application to the SSA. You can apply by visiting any of the agency’s field offices, filling an online form, or via phone call.

In Minnesota, SSA is assisted by the Disability Determination Services (DDS), a division of Minnesota’s Department of Employment and Economic Development. Though the SSA provides all funding for the Social Security benefits programs, DDS examines every applicant for disabilities.

How To Appeal a Denial in Minnesota

In Minnesota, only 43.9% of initial SSDI applications get approved. The remaining 56.1% of applicants have to appeal in order to win their claim. If you are not approved, the first step is to request a reconsideration.

At this stage, another DDS employee will review your application. At the reconsideration stage, 11.5% of applicants get approval.

The next stage of the appeals process is the disability hearing. You can contact the Minnesota Office of Hearing Operations (formerly known as Office of Disability Adjudication and Review) to schedule a hearing before an administrative law judge.

The success rate for the hearing stage is high (51%), but not everyone gets approved. You can still proceed to two other stages. You first need to appear before an Appeals Council to state your claim. If that fails, you can then proceed to a U.S District Court.

The OHO will render any assistance if you need some but will not offer legal advice. If you feel you have any legal issues, you should employ the services of a disability attorney. The advocacy of a lawyer can help you avoid getting a rejection in the first stage so you can start receiving your SSDI benefits early.

Note that you won’t receive benefits until five months after the DDS approves your application.

More Minnesota Benefits

Minnesota residents who are unable to acquire their basic needs and pay for medical care can also get SSI, Medicaid, and unemployment benefits.

Apply for SSI in Minnesota

Supplemental Security Income, SSI, is available for low-income earners who are over 65, pregnant, disabled, or taking care of a family member who is disabled. The supplemental income is available for both children and adults.

The SSA pays $794 or $1,191 for qualified individuals living alone and couples, respectively.

In addition, Minnesota gives low-income earners who are disabled or elderly the Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA). With MSA, low-income individuals living alone receive $82, and couples receive $111 as supplemental income. People in care facilities also receive $72.

The Department of Welfare and Human Services administers MSA in Minnesota. Provision of housing, food, medical costs also come with MSA.

Minnesota Medicaid

Minnesota Medicaid is formally known in the state as Medical Assistance. Health care insurance is available for low-income earners just like SSI, though not all who qualify for SSI qualify for Medicaid in Minnesota.

After meeting SSI requirements, Medicaid applicants must also meet pre-tax yearly household income. Individuals must earn 17,131 or below yearly. $6,038 is added for every member of a household to arrive at the limit for families.

There is a waiver for people who surpass the limit but have unpaid hospital bills. The spend-down program deducts the person’s unpaid bills from his income to arrive at his MSA. The state also provides emergency funds for those who are eligible to take care of urgent medical expenses.

Minnesota Unemployment

Minnesota unemployment benefits assist Minnesota residents who lost their job through no fault of their own. If you meet the requirements, you can earn half of your previous weekly wages (maximum $762).

The program is only available for people who are unemployed and have worked in Minnesota for up to a year. The work duration might be longer for some positions. If you meet all the benefits, you can start receiving weekly cash benefits while actively searching for another job.

How Do Short-Term Benefits in Minnesota Work?

Minnesota provides both short-term and long-term benefits to eligible individuals. Short-term benefits (AKA temporary assistance) are designed to offer immediate support during a crisis or transition. In contrast, long-term benefits provide ongoing assistance to individuals who face more chronic or enduring challenges.

Short-term benefits in Minnesota typically include programs such as:

1. Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP)

This program offers temporary cash assistance and employment services to low-income families with children. Eligible families receive financial support while working towards self-sufficiency through employment and other resources.

2. General Assistance (GA)

GA provides short-term financial assistance to adults without dependent children who cannot work due to a disability or other barriers. It helps individuals meet their basic needs, such as housing, food, and clothing, during difficult time.

3. Emergency Assistance (EA)

EA offers immediate aid to families facing an emergency that jeopardizes their health. This may include assistance with housing, utilities, or other critical needs.

These short-term benefits temporarily relieve individuals or families during challenging circumstances. To apply for short-term benefits, individuals typically need to provide documents such as proof of income, identification, and information about their household composition.

While short-term benefits offer immediate support during crises or transitions, long-term benefits provide ongoing aid to individuals with chronic challenges or disabilities. It’s essential to follow the specific application procedures for each program and provide the necessary documents to support your eligibility. Consulting with professionals, such as disability attorneys, social workers, or application advisors, can help you navigate the process and increase your chances of receiving the necessary benefits.

Minnesota Social Security Offices

Minnesota Hearing and Appeal Offices

Minnesota is in Region 5 (Chicago), which services Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

The Minneapolis Hearing Office services the Minnesota cities of Austin, Bloomington, Brooklyn Center, Duluth, Edina, Fairmont, Hibbing, Mankato, Minneapolis, Rochester, St. Cloud, St. Paul, and Winona.

Virginia provides a number of disability services for its residents. Assistance can be found at the federal level with Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

The state also offers Medicaid (a joint state and federal program), unemployment benefits, and academic accommodations to students with disabilities – including assistive technology and testing accommodations under the Virginia Department of Education. This provides assistance to college students who may need disability accommodations while they pursue higher education.

Though SSDI and SSI are federal-funded by the Social Security Administration (SSA), the application process is administered by state agencies. In Virginia, this is done by Disability Determination Services (DDS), a branch of the Virginia Department of Aging and Rehabilitation Services (DARS).

Facts About Virginia

Approximately 4% of Virginia’s residents currently receive a Social Security benefit. However, around 24% have some sort of disability with the majority of those being mobility and cognition-related. While not everyone with a disability can qualify for SSDI benefits, the more people know about the application and evaluation process, the better their chances are of receiving funds.

Virginia has 30 Social Security field offices as well as seven Offices of Hearings and Appeals (OHA) to assist its residents with disability services.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Virginia

All Americans, regardless of where they live, must meet the same set of requirements to receive a Social Security disability benefit. In general, there are two main criteria you must meet – your disability must be classified as “severe,” and you must have contributed sufficiently into the Social Security fund through your years of employment.

Most people will need to show at least 10 years of work history, though you can still be working and receive a benefit. However, there are income limits known as your Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).

These caps are different depending on your disability. Those who are blind can make up to $2,190 in monthly income, and those with developmental disabilities or another physical disability can make up to $1,310. If you are currently working, know that as an employee you are protected from disability discrimination from your employer. A workplace must make any reasonable accommodation to help you complete your duties.

Applicants must also ensure their disability is found on this list compiled by the SSA. These conditions have all been deemed severe enough to limit one’s ability to work for at least 12 months or end in death.

Just because you meet the above criteria doesn’t mean you will automatically qualify. Your application still must be reviewed by DDS, and not everyone who applies will receive a monthly benefit. There are some factors such as receiving workers’ compensation that can affect your eligibility. Regardless, you should always apply even if you think you may be denied.

How To Apply for SSDI in Virginia

You can file a disability claim in one of three ways: online, over the phone, or in person. If you wish to file for Social Security Disability online you’ll do so at the federal Social Security site.

You can also call 800-772-1213 to speak with a representative over the phone. Those wishing to apply in person should contact their closest Social Security field office listed below.

Whichever method you choose, you should take time to gather relevant information beforehand to make the process of applying for a disability benefit smoother.

You will need to provide basic personal information about you and your family including marriage, divorce, and military records as disabled veterans may be entitled to additional benefits from the VA. You will also need to bring medical records along with contact information for doctors and clinics that have treated you regarding your disability. 

How To Appeal a Denial in Virginia

The approval rate for first-time applications in Virginia is 42% which is higher than the national average of 35%. Even so, this means the majority of applicants will have to go through one or more steps of the appeal process if they want to receive benefits. Each step in this process must be completed within 60 days of the previous denial to be considered, and you must go through each step in order.

Step 1: Reconsideration

A reconsideration appeal is when you request a different disability evaluation specialist from DDS review your application to make a new determination. This is usually a quick process and will not require any additional paperwork from the applicant. About 15% of applications are approved at this stage.

Step 2: Disability Hearing

If your first appeal was denied, you can request a disability adjudication with an administrative law judge. This disability hearing will be scheduled at the closest Hearing and Appeals Offices in Virginia and it typically takes around 15 months to get a date.

Most people will be asked to bring additional documentation or provide witnesses like family, friends, or doctors who can speak about the disability. Many will also wish to employ an attorney at this stage. Though it can take a while to meet with a judge, 47% of cases in Virginia are approved at this stage.

Step 3: Appeals Council

If your disability adjudication was unsuccessful, your next step is to ask the Social Security Appeals Council to review your case. They will look at all the previous decisions, determine if an error was made, and rule on whether the decision should be upheld or overturned.

Step 4: Federal Court

Your last option is to file a lawsuit with the district federal court. There are two district federal courts in Virginia, representing the eastern and western districts.

More Virginia Benefits

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another financial assistance program run by the SSA. When you apply for SSDI, your application will be evaluated to see if you also qualify for SSI benefits. These benefits are for individuals with low incomes, are blind or disabled, or are over the age of 65 with or without a disability.

Virginia also has an Auxiliary Grant (AG) program that adds additional payments for those living in assisted living or adult foster care.

Virginia Medicaid

Virginia Medicaid (Cover Virginia) aims to provide health coverage for residents who may go without due to lack of funds. An individual must make less than $17,131 in annual income to qualify. If you receive SSI benefits you will be automatically enrolled in Medicaid.

Virginia Unemployment

The Virginia Employment Commission oversees Virginia Unemployment benefits. These social services are intended to help those who have become unemployed through no fault of their own with financial help. Virginia’s program pays out a maximum of $378 a week for a total of 26 weeks.

Virginia Social Security Offices

Virginia Hearing and Appeal Offices

Virginia is in Region 3 (Philadelphia), which services Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and District of Columbia.

Social Security Disability in Maryland helps disabled Maryland residents obtain the housing, food, and care they need if they are unable to work due to some disability. The maximum benefit amount is $2,148, but SSDI payment amounts vary from recipient to recipient since the amount is calculated using a formula that takes work history into account.

Facts About Maryland

An estimated 21.5% of the adult population in Maryland has some sort of disability that might qualify them for SSDI. These disabilities include functional impairments in terms of mobility, cognition, independent living, hearing, vision, and self care.

Adults with disabilities are significantly more likely to have issues with smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, and staying active. An individual with developmental disabilities might also need a caregiver to assist with life tasks. The average cost for a caregiver or home care provider in Maryland is around $21 per hour. SSDI can also help defray these expenses.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Maryland

The Social Security Administration awards SSDI benefit payments to disabled individuals with a condition that will last at least 12 months or eventually result in death. The disability must prevent you from doing any type of work. The SSA will make a determination based on your medical condition and work history. Generally speaking, you will need at least 40 credits to collect disability benefit payments, 20 of which must have been earned in the past decade.

Earning credits may be easier than you think. If you earned $5,880 in 2021, you’ve worked enough to earn all four work credits for the year. Unlike SSI or Veterans benefits, the exact nature of the disability does not determine the size of the monthly benefit payment, nor can financial resources (such as a retirement account) prevent one from collecting SSDI.

How To Apply for SSDI in Maryland

If you live in Maryland, there are about 20 different SSA field offices where you can walk in and apply for SSDI. Please note that these locations are not always the same as the local Maryland Department of Health and Human Services (MDHS) or state-administered social services buildings where you might apply for food stamps or Maryland Medicaid.

You can also apply for SSDI over the phone by calling 800-772-1213, or online at SSA.gov. If approved, the amount of disability awarded to an individual is based on a formula that takes into account the top 35 years of wage earning, divided by 420 (the number of months in that period) to find the AIME (average indexed monthly earnings). This amount is then multiplied against a percentage based on income brackets to find the PIA – primary insurance amount. This amount is entirely based on work history, not disability. However, you need to provide clear proof of a disability to the SSA in order to collect SSDI.

How to Appeal a Denial in Maryland

Do you disagree with a decision regarding your Social Security Disability application? You can appeal to the SSA by starting with a request for reconsideration. You can submit new evidence regarding your medical history, work history, or financial resources.

If that does not reverse the initial decisions, you can request a hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Approximately 44% of the cases heard by an ALJ are successfully appealed.

If you are still unhappy with the decision, the next step is to file a request for a review by the Appeals Council. They will review the merits of your case and return it to an ALJ or decide it themselves. The final level of appeal is to take your case to a federal district court, though this is uncommon. An attorney can help you explore other options like permanent partial disability or permanent total disability provided as part of Maryland workers compensation insurance.

More Maryland Benefits

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is run by the SSA but is different than SSDI. SSI is another federal program to assist those who are 65 or older, are disabled or blind, or have limited financial resources. SSI is administered based on disability and financial hardship, while SSDI is administered based on disability and work history.

Usually, the SSA will check to see if you qualify for SSI when you apply for SSDI, so you do not need to fill out a separate application. But if you’d like to explore other benefits available to Maryland residents such as SNAP and WIC (food-related benefits), Medicare, rent assistance, and energy assistance, you will need to contact your local branch of the Maryland DHS (Department of Human Services).

For Maryland residents who don’t have health insurance through their workplace and who are not able to purchase their plan out of pocket due to limited financial resources, Maryland Medicaid will provide them with medical insurance. There are several insurance plans to choose from, so it’s important to see which ones your preferred doctor or primary care physician accepts.

For those Maryland Residents who are out of work, Maryland Unemployment Benefits can assist in defraying the cost of living until other employment has been secured. Claimants can apply over the phone by calling 667-207-6520 or by using the online BEACON system.

Maryland Social Security Offices

Maryland Hearing and Appeal Offices

Maryland is in Region 3 (Philadelphia), which services Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and District of Columbia.

Disabled Indiana residents who are unable to work can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income benefits. They are both federal programs, though elements of their day-to-day administration are carried out at the state level.

In the state of Indiana, the Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services oversees the administration of a full range of disability services for Indiana residents with disabilities. This includes vocational rehabilitation services, reasonable accommodation (provided under The Americans With Disabilities Act), and other special education resources. 

The purpose of the SSDI and SSI programs in Indiana is to identify residents with disabilities that prevent them from working or fully participating in educational activities.

The state of Indiana and the U.S. federal government seek two important outcomes when administering these programs: First, they want to accurately identify Indiana residents who qualify as disabled according to the SSA’s strict definition. Second, they seek to connect these individuals with the programs and services that help them lead their most productive lives within Indiana communities.

In pursuit of its mission, the division works closely with 26 local Social Security Administration field offices located throughout the state of Indiana, plus collaborating with the SSA at both regional and national levels.

If you think you may qualify for one or both of these programs – or other benefit programs in Indiana – keep reading for everything you need to know about submitting a successful disability claim.

Facts About Indiana

A wide variety of physical, mental, emotional, and developmental disabilities have a substantial impact on the health and well-being of Indiana residents. Roughly 28% of Indiana residents report having a disability of some kind, which equates to one in four Indiana adults.

Disabilities have far-reaching implications for Indiana residents – Indiana adults who report disabilities are more likely to smoke, be obese and report heart disease or diabetes.

These disabilities cost the state of Indiana upwards of $18.7 billion every year, which represents approximately 36% of the state’s overall health care spending – or nearly $17,000 annually per Indiana adult resident with disabilities.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Indiana

The Social Security Disability Insurance program has two primary eligibility requirements.

First is non-medical eligibility – an individual must have worked for enough years to have paid sufficiently into the Social Security system. This allows the applicant to earn an appropriate level of work credits.

For all applicants who have earned sufficient work credits, medical eligibility is the second step in the evaluation process. To be eligible for SSDI, an applicant must also prove a documented disability that meets the SSA’s extremely strict definition.

The disability must prevent the applicant from engaging in any type of gainful activity. Additionally, the disability must be expected to last at least one year or be terminal.

How To Apply for SSDI in Indiana

You can apply for Social Security disability benefits in Indiana through any of the following three ways:

First, you can apply online. When you begin this process, you will be assigned an application number. Keep it in a safe place because you’ll need it at various points throughout the application process. If you lose track of this number, it cannot be reissued and you will have to restart the online application process.

You may also apply in person at any one of 25 SSA field offices across Indiana. It’s also a good idea to call your closest field office in advance to find out whether it requires you to make an appointment before coming in to apply.

The third option is to apply for SSI or SSDI benefits over the phone by calling 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available to assist you from Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. You are welcome to handle your application yourself, while some claimants choose to work with a disability lawyer to put together their initial disability claim.

If your case if pending, you can call the Indiana Disability Determination Bureau toll free at 800-622-4968 where you can ask for the Examiner that has been assigned to your claim. Their name and phone number will be on the last page of the documents provided to you by the Disability Determination services.  

How To Appeal a Denial in Indiana

Your initial claim for Social Security benefits may be denied. Roughly 68% of disability claims in Indiana are denied upon initial submission.

If your disability claim is denied, you still have two more stages of review: the reconsideration stage and the hearing stage. Upon denial, some applicants may choose to engage a qualified disability attorney to guide them through the remaining stages of the review process.

Upon reconsideration, your claim will be reviewed by a representative who was not involved with the initial evaluation of your claim for disability benefits. You also have the opportunity to share new information or medical evidence to support your claim.

If your case is denied again, you may request a disability hearing with an administrative law judge, who will evaluate whether your disability adjudication was handled appropriately. In Indiana, just over half of the cases that go to a disability hearing are approved.

More Indiana Benefits

In addition to Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, Indiana offers a range of programs to help support financial stability for the state’s most vulnerable residents. Below is just a sample.

SSI

Supplemental Security Income benefits in Indiana provide financial assistance to low-income Indiana residents who are either over age 65 or are disabled. In Indiana, the amount of SSI benefits for an eligible single person is $771 per month, and the amount for eligible couples is $1,157 per month.

Indiana Medicaid

Medicaid in Indiana makes it possible for Indiana residents with low income to access an appropriate level of medical benefits. While the federal government establishes general guidelines for the administration of Medicaid benefits, each state has the latitude to define some eligibility criteria and services covered.

In general, applicants must fulfill the following criteria to be considered eligible for Indiana Medicaid:

• Resident of the state of Indiana
• U.S. citizen or legally authorized non-citizen
• Low or very low income, as compared to the federal poverty level

Most non-disabled adults in Indiana are covered under the Healthy Indiana Plan.

Indiana Unemployment

Unemployment insurance benefits in Indiana provide vital financial security for Indiana residents who have lost their employment through no fault of their own.

To be eligible for Indiana unemployment benefits, a worker must be able to show that they are actively looking for work and that they are able, physically and mentally, and available to work when suitable employment is offered. This includes ensuring that all transportation accommodations and child care needs are addressed.

If you live in Iowa and have a disability, there are several state and federal programs that can provide financial assistance. At the state level, Iowa residents can receive vocational rehabilitation services, unemployment benefits, Medicaid, long-term disability for state employees, as well as help from Iowa’s Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). 

The state also passed the Rehabilitation Act in 1973 protecting the civil rights of minors, prohibiting schools from discriminating against any student with a disability.

There are also disability services at the federal level such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These Social Security disability benefits are funded at the national level but processed at the state level through Iowa Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS processes all SSA disability claims and determines what benefit is awarded.

Facts About Iowa

Approximately 23% of Iowans have some kind of disability. The largest representation of these comes from those with a mobility-related disability (10%) like cerebral palsy or conditions that would require a wheelchair, a cognitive impairment (10%) like dementia or Alzheimer’s, or a hearing-related disability (7%).

Only 4% of residents currently receive Social Security disability benefits, so a substantial number of Iowans go without aid.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Iowa

Social Security Disability is available to all eligible Americans, and requirements are the same from state to state.

There are two main requirements you must meet. The first is that your disability must be considered “severe” and must be listed in the SSA Blue Book. This is a comprehensive list of disabilities that can receive federal monetary aid. If your disability is not listed here, you will not qualify.

Your disabling condition must limit your ability to work for at least 12 months to qualify. It may help to consult the list of severe conditions and check your status with the SSA before applying. Roughly 70% of first-time applicants are denied for not meeting basic requirements.

The second requirement is that you must have been employed long enough to fully pay into the Social Security system. You need at least 10 years of work history, though this requirement can be waived based on your age and the severity of your disability.

Many people who are disabled are still able to work in some capacity. If this is your case, know that there are disability rights Iowa has passed to protect against disability discrimination. By law, employers must make reasonable accommodations for disabled workers.

How To Apply for SSDI in Iowa

The SSA handles applications for SSDI benefits. Your application will then be sent to the Iowa DDS, which determines whether you meet the federal criteria.

There are three ways to apply – in person, online, or over the phone. The quickest way to apply is online at the federal Social Security website. Apply by phone by calling (800) 772-1213 to speak with a representative. You may also choose to apply in person at one of Iowa’s 16 Social Security field offices. Contact information for these offices can be found below.

Before submitting a disability claim, prepare the proper documentation that supports your medical condition and verifies your work history. Documents may include:

• Personal information about you, your spouse, and any minor children or adult children with disabilities you care for. They may also ask for social security numbers, birth certificates, or marriage or divorce documents.
• Medical records from doctors, clinics, or services you’ve received that pertain to your disability, be it physical, mental, or developmental disabilities
• Past and current employment information

How To Appeal a Denial in Iowa

Since 70% of initial applications are denied, you should be prepared to begin the appeals process immediately after receiving your determination. There are four levels of appeals, and each must be submitted within 60 days of the preceding denial.

You must go through each stage before moving on to the next.

1. Reconsideration – The first level of appeals is called reconsideration. You will not need to provide any new information at this stage. A new DDS representative will review your claim to see if any errors were made. In Iowa, around 80% of reconsideration appeals are denied.
2. Disability Adjudication – If your reconsideration was denied, you will likely have more luck with your disability hearing. You will need to bring additional documentation or witnesses who can support your case. The hearing will take place at the Iowa Hearing and Appeal Office in West Des Moines.
3. Appeals Council – In the next level of appeal, you can request to have an Appeals Council review the previous two decisions. At this point, many claimants choose to contact a Social Security disability lawyer if they haven’t already.
4. District Court – The highest and last level of appeals happens when a federal district court reviews the Appeals Court decision. There are two federal district courts in Iowa, one for Northern districts and one for Southern.

More Iowa Benefits

SSI

Like SSDI, SSI is a Social Security assistance program. Supplemental Security Income benefits can be awarded to eligible low-income Iowa residents who are either disabled, blind, or over age 65.

The current monthly SSI payout is $794. You will be notified by the SSA if you qualify for SSI when they review your SSDI application.

Iowa Medicaid

Iowa Medicaid is a health insurance program for any individual earning less than $17,131 a year. This is a joint federal and state program run by the Iowa Department of Human Services. Most people who qualify for SSI will also qualify for Medicaid as the income requirements are very similar. Most Medicaid recipients will be covered under the IA Health Link managed care program.

Iowa Unemployment

Iowa unemployment benefits are intended for an employee who has found themselves out of work through no fault of their own and needs temporary financial assistance. The best way to apply is online through Iowa Workforce Development. Those who qualify can receive a weekly cash benefit of up to $493 for a limited time.

Iowa Social Security Offices

Iowa Hearing and Appeal Offices

Iowa is in Region 7 (Kansas City), which services Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri. 

The West Des Moines Hearing Office services the cities of Ames, Burlington, Carroll, Cedar Rapids, Clinton, Creston, Decorah, Des Moines,
Dubuque, Fort Dodge, Iowa City, Marshalltown, Mason City, Ottumwa, and Waterloo.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available for Ohio residents who qualify based on their past work experience and their disability. 

The program is offered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), a federal agency with locations in each state to help state residents apply for and manage their SSD benefits. Each Ohio Social Security office is responsible for determining one’s eligibility for SSDI benefits and dispersing their benefits.

Facts About Ohio

Ohio currently has a slightly higher-than-average percentage of adults with disabilities, when compared to national statistics, at 26.9%. Ohio also has more people with disabilities who are likely to be inactive, have high blood pressure, and be obese than adults with disabilities across the nation.

Fortunately, many disabilities and conditions make adults eligible for disability SSI benefits in Ohio, including back injuries, neurological disorders, developmental disabilities, cancer, immune system conditions, and respiratory illnesses. However, it’s important to get a medical diagnosis for any condition you’d like to note on your Ohio disability application.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Ohio

Ohio residents must meet specific eligibility requirements to get Social Security disability benefits. The Social Security Administration sets these requirements, but Ohio Social Security offices are responsible for reviewing the disability benefit application and determining eligibility for each applicant.

To be eligible, an applicant must be a U.S. citizen, be able to show proof of citizenship with a birth certificate, qualify by income level, and have a medically proven disability. It is important to have detailed medical records, summarizing any medical conditions and disabilities.

Each applicant should have plenty of medical evidence that supports a diagnosis for an SSA-approved disability, which may include:

• Digestive disorders
• Speech and hearing disorders
• Visual impairments or blindness
• Musculoskeletal disorders
• Mental health and neurological disorders
• Cancer
• Skin conditions
• Immune disorders

SSDI also requires applicants to have enough work credits earned to qualify for benefits. Work credits come from employment, and they denote whether an individual has worked long enough and for enough hours to begin withdrawing SSDI benefits. Each person can earn up to four credits per year, and you’ll need at least 40 credits to qualify for a Social Security benefit. At least 20 of those credits must be from employment within the past ten years.

How To Apply for SSDI in Ohio

An Ohio resident may apply for Social Security disability benefits through the SSA, either online, by telephone, or at their closest SSA office. There are currently 56 SSA offices throughout Ohio, located in areas like Cleveland, Medina, Akron, Toledo, Columbus, and Marietta.

The application can be lengthy, but it’s important to follow each step thoroughly and provide all required medical records and documents related to your medical condition. Doing so can help you reach a faster disability determination. If you require assistance with your application, you can appoint a representative for legal help. This can be a family member, attorney, or even a medical professional.

Some applications may be fast-tracked, depending on your disability. Ohio’s military veterans may also have their claims expedited as well as adding VA benefits to their Social Security disability benefit monthly payment.

After applying for SSDI benefits in Ohio, applicants can check the status of their application on the SSA website. However, keep in mind that the SSA requires a five-month waiting time until benefits begin getting paid out, even if you are approved. The waiting period begins the first month after the SSA determines you first became disabled.

How To Appeal a Denial in Ohio

There are multiple stages of approving and denying disability claims in Ohio. Ohio citizens may appeal their SSDA denial at any stage, but the appeals process will be slightly different depending on the stage.

Either you or a disability lawyer can file an appeal for you. A Social Security disability lawyer can provide legal help to navigate the process, which can sometimes be confusing and overwhelming. If appealing yourself, you may file your appeal online or by mailing the information to the address listed on your paperwork, which will likely be your closest Ohio Social Security office. You can find the addresses for local offices below.

Appeals begin with a reconsideration review by an administrative law judge, followed by the Appeals Council and a federal court review as the appeal continues through the process.

More Ohio Benefits

Social Security Disability Insurance isn’t the only form of assistance Ohio offers to citizens. Here are a few more common programs to consider applying for, depending on your situation:

Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) often gets confused with SSDI, but they’re different programs offered by the SSA. Ohio SSI is for low-income children or adults with a disability that affects their ability to work or carry out important daily living tasks. Individuals 65 or older may also qualify for SSI if they don’t have a disability.

You can apply for SSI through your local office, by mail, or online, but you’ll need a different application than the one for SSDI to do so. Ohio SSA offices check an applicant’s eligibility for both programs when they apply for one, which makes it easier to ensure you’re getting the proper benefits.

Ohio Medicaid

Ohio Medicaid offers health coverage to eligible low-income residents. A person receiving Medicaid must be blind, have a disability, or be caring for someone with a disability, be responsible for a minor child, or be age 65 or older. Some groups, like children and pregnant women, are eligible for coverage in higher income brackets than others to better meet their healthcare needs.

Although not all medical services are covered, many are, including therapy for mental illness, short-term disability treatments, medical equipment, and speech-language pathology. However, some Ohio Medicaid services may require members to pay small co-pays.

Ohio Unemployment

Ohio unemployment benefits assist the state’s workers who have been laid off from or lost a job through no fault of their own. The program comes from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and pays financial assistance for up to 26 weeks while the recipient looks for a new job.

To qualify for Ohio unemployment, an individual must have worked at least 20 weeks for a covered employer and be either completely or partially unemployed. Individuals must also have earned at least $243 within the required base period, or at least four of the five previous quarters.

Ohio Social Security Offices

Ohio Hearing and Appeal Offices

Ohio is in Region 5 (Chicago), which services Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. 

Social Security Disability Benefits can help disabled Montana residents cover living expenses like food and housing.

These Social Security benefits are provided to assist a person with a physical or mental illness or terminal condition who cannot hold gainful employment due to their functional limitations.

Facts About Montana

The percentage of disabled individuals in Montana is slightly higher than the national average, with almost one out of every three adults having some sort of disability that could qualify them for SSDI (the national average is 25%).

The biggest disability types in Big Sky Country are mobility, cognition, and hearing, followed by a lower percentage of disabled individuals with issues around independent living, self-care, and vision. Around 33% of the healthcare costs in Montana are spent on disability, equating to around $2.6 billion annually.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Montana

To qualify for SSDI, Disability Determination Services will need to see evidence that you have the disability you claimed on your SSDI application. This can be done through furnishing medical records, hospital bills, signed letters from doctors, and undergoing a consultative exam by an SSA-approved doctor.

If you don’t have a specific disability, you can still end up collecting Social Security Disability by showing that you have a low Residual Functional Capacity that prevents you from holding gainful employment.

In addition to the medical component of your SSDI application, you must have paid a sufficient amount of FICA taxes over your working career to qualify to collect SSDI. SSDI is a type of insurance plan that working employees and self-employed individuals pay into as part of their Social Security taxes. If a time comes when you need to exercise a disability claim, the SSA will need to see that you have paid your premiums.

The SSA measures this in work credits, with $1,470 in earnings meriting one work credit with a max of four per year. SSDI applicants need 40 credits, half of which must have been earned in the past year. In some instances, an SSDI applicant can have fewer credits to qualify, especially if they are younger.

A disabled Veteran can also qualify for SSDI, but in addition to filing a Social Security Disability claim, they should also look into VA disability benefits issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs. A disabled Veteran can collect VA benefits and SSDI at the same time.

If you were injured on the job, SSDI may not be an option, but worker’s compensation insurance likely is instead. Workers comp offers short-term disability and long-term disability for the disabled individual, and sometimes their spouse or dependents. However, it’s often best to meet with an SSDI lawyer to see what path forward is best for the beneficiary, financially and otherwise.

How To Apply for SSDI in Montana

The easiest way to apply for SSDI is online at the Social Security Administration website. You can also call 800-772-1213 and apply for SSDI over the phone. You can also apply in person at one of the 9 SSA field office locations throughout Montana.

How To Appeal a Denial in Montana

If your SSDI application is denied, you don’t have to give up. You can request a reconsideration which allows you to submit more evidence. If the reconsideration does not work out, you can request a hearing by an administrative law judge.

If the outcome from the ALJ is undesirable, the next step is to request a disability hearing from the Appeals Council, who may return your case to a different ALJ. Disability adjudication is a process that can take months and sometimes years. SSDI back pay will cover up to 12 months of payment if your case is approved.

To make sure your disability adjudication doesn’t drag out beyond a year, it’s helpful to get an SSDI lawyer to help you. Having an SSDI attorney throughout the application process can increase the chances of your claim being approved.

More Montana Benefits

SSI

In addition to SSDI benefits, the SSA operates another program called Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which provides financial assistance to low-income Montana residents. To be eligible for SSI, you must be disabled, blind, over the age of 65, and in possession of no more than $2,000 in financial resources for an individual ($3,000 for a couple).

When you apply for SSDI, the SSA will check if you can collect SSI as well. In addition to increasing your benefit payout, SSI gives you access to Medicaid benefits while you wait 2 years for the SSDI-associated Medicare to kick in.

Montana Medicaid is administered by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. Medicaid provides health insurance coverage to low-income individuals and their dependents. The program is jointly funded and administered by federal and state governments.

For Montana residents out of work through no fault of their own, the Montana Department of Labor and Industry provides Montana Unemployment Benefits. These benefits pay a percentage of what a person previously earned in their most recent workplace, to help defray the cost of living expenses until they are back on their feet with a new job.

Montana Social Security Offices

Montana Hearing and Appeal Offices

Montana is in Region 8 (Denver), which services Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming.

The Billings Hearing Office services the following cities in Montana: Billings, Bozeman, Butte, Deer Lodge, Glendive, Great Falls, Havre, Helena, Kalispell, Miles City, Missoula, and Wolf Point.

If you live in New Hampshire and have a disability, you may qualify to receive disability benefits.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are both federal programs run by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provide financial support in the form of monthly payments for Americans with disabilities.

Though both programs are funded by the federal government, eligibility for disability benefits is determined at the state level. In New Hampshire, these Social Security benefits are run through the New Hampshire Bureau of Disability Determination Services (DDS) under the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) which processes all SSA disability claims and determines what benefits are awarded.

New Hampshire also provides state-run programs like unemployment benefits, workers’ compensation, and Medicaid (a joint federal and state program). You may also be able to obtain veterans benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs if you can show military service or if you’re the surviving spouse of a veteran. Certain tax credits are available as well as other benefits like being able to hunt from motor vehicles or boats.

Facts About New Hampshire

Nearly 25% of New Hampshire residents have some kind of disability, though only a fraction of them are currently receiving Social Security disability benefits. Of those who are disabled, the largest percentage are those with some kind of intellectual disability or developmental disability, followed by those with a mobility-related disability. Roughly 40,000 residents currently receive disability benefits, though thousands more would likely qualify. 

How To Qualify for SSDI in New Hampshire

When applying for Social Security Disability, it’s important to understand that the criteria for qualifying are the same regardless of the state where you live. That said, it’s up to each state’s Disability Determination Services to review your claim and determine if your disability application will be approved. You must prove that your disability is severe enough and that you’ve worked long enough to pay into the Social Security system.

The SSA has compiled a comprehensive list of disabilities, sometimes called the “Blue Book,” that it considers “severe” enough to limit your ability to work for at least 12 months or end in death. It’s strongly recommended you consult this list before applying for SSDI benefits.

You will also need to show an adequate work history, which typically means at least 10 years of employment. Waivers are available if you’ve never been able to work due to your disability. If you’re currently working in some capacity, you’re protected by law from disability discrimination, and your employer must provide any reasonable accommodation to help complete your job duties.

How To Apply for SSDI in New Hampshire

You can submit your disability claim in one of three ways—online, by phone, or in person at your closest Social Security field office. The fastest and easiest way to apply is online at the SSA website. You can also call the national number at (800) 772-1213 to have someone walk you through the process and answer any questions. If you want to apply in person, find your closest office from the list below and call to make an appointment. There are currently six field offices in New Hampshire. 

Before applying, gather relevant documentation to send along with your application. Typically, you’ll need to show medical records associated with your disability including contact information for doctors and clinics. You will also need to provide basic personal information about you, your spouse, and your children. This could include date of birth, marriage and divorce records, employment history, and military contacts for active duty servicemen or military records for disabled veterans.

How To Appeal a Denial in New Hampshire

Disability applicants in New Hampshire are in a favorable position when they apply for disability benefits. The state has one of the highest approval ratings in the country, with around 52% of applicants being accepted with their initial application. Compare this to the national average of 35%, and you’ll see why the process of obtaining SSDI benefits can be so difficult.

If you aren’t approved on the first round, you will have to start the appeals process. Each level of appeals must be submitted within 60 days of the previous denial, and you must go through each stage before moving on to the next.

Your first step is to request to have a new DDS representative reconsider your application to see if an error was made. You won’t need to provide any new information and this is usually a quick process.

The next step is to request a formal hearing with an administrative law judge, and you should be prepared to bring additional documentation or witnesses to support your case. Some may choose to hire a disability attorney at this time for legal advice. Your disability hearing will take place at the Hearing and Appeal Office located in Manchester. Of those who get a hearing, 51% are approved for benefits.

If you still are being denied you can request that an Appeals Council review all the previous decisions to see if an error was made.

The last chance you have is to appeal to the federal courts. A judge at the federal district court in New Hampshire will review the Appeals Court’s decision and make a final determination one way or the other. If you get to this stage, you’ll likely need a disability lawyer from a qualified law firm to help you.

More New Hampshire Benefits

SSI

Some who qualify for SSDI will also qualify for Supplemental Security Income. This is another Social Security benefit that provides financial assistance to those with very low incomes. SSI benefits can be approved for those who are disabled, blind, or over age 65. When the DDS evaluates your SSDI application, they will automatically check to see if you also qualify for SSI benefits.

New Hampshire Medicaid

New Hampshire Medicaid offers health care insurance to individuals with very low incomes. Most Americans who qualify for SSI will also qualify for Medicaid, although in New Hampshire, you must apply separately for Medicaid – it won’t be automatically granted.

New Hampshire Unemployment

Employees who need temporary financial assistance due to a loss of employment through no fault of their own can apply for New Hampshire unemployment benefits. This is a weekly cash benefit of up to $427 for up to 26 weeks. You can obtain this service online or by applying at the closest Employment Security office.

New Hampshire Disability Benefits Social Security Offices

New Hampshire Disability Benefits Hearing and Appeal Offices

New Hampshire is in Region 1 (Boston), which services Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. 

The Manchester Hearing Office services Concord NH, Keene NH, Littleton NH, Manchester NH, Burlington VT, Montpelier VT, and Rutland VT.

Social Security Disability Insurance is a federal program that provides monthly benefit payments to disabled Mississippi residents. The exact amount of Social Security disability benefits awarded to a Mississippi resident are based on the applicant’s work history and previous wages.

SSDI benefits are payable to anyone with a sufficient work history who is unable to work due to a disability that will last at least 12 months or result in death.

Facts About Mississippi

With 34% of the population having some kind of disability, Mississippi has a slightly higher number of disabled individuals than the national average of 25.6%. Mississippi spends around $4.5 billion on disability-related healthcare expenditures annually. Mobility, cognition, and independent living top the disability charts in Mississippi, followed by hearing, vision, and self care.

Notably, Mississippi residents have a higher percentage than the national average in terms of issues with obesity, smoking, high blood pressure, and inactivity. The numbers of disabled Mississippi residents who are inactive, obese, and/or have high blood pressure are particularly high. Government programs like SSDI can defray the healthcare costs of these Mississippi residents.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Mississippi

Mississippi residents hoping to qualify for Social Security Disability will first need to be eligible on a non-medical basis. This means that their previous employment or self-employment created work credits that could be applied toward SSDI payments if needed. Generally speaking, an SSDI applicant needs 40 work credits, half of that earned in the past decade. However, it only takes earning $1,470 to get one work credit and you can only earn four per year anyway. Younger applicants may also be able to apply with fewer work credits.

If you have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI, you must then qualify on a medical basis by demonstrating that you have a disability that prevents you from working. Your SSDI application will be fast tracked if your disability is included on the Compassionate Allowances list of 242 different conditions such as rapidly accelerating cancers, degenerative diseases, and other conditions that could result in death. It may be necessary to hire a disability lawyer to win your claim.

How To Apply for SSDI in Mississippi

The easiest way to file for SSDI benefits is to apply online through the Social Security Administration website. You can also call 800-772-1213 or visit one of the two dozen Social Security Administration field offices sprinkled throughout Mississippi. Please note that these SSA field offices are not the same as the field offices for the Mississippi Department of Human Services, which administers other benefits such as TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).

How To Appeal a Denial in Mississippi

If you applied for SSDI in Mississippi and your SSDI application was denied by Disability Determination Services (DDS), you can contest the decision with a reconsideration request. This allows you to furnish additional evidence.

If you are still unhappy with the decision, the next step is to take your case before an Administrative Law Judge. If that doesn’t work, you can request a review from the Appeals Council. The reconsideration process can take anywhere from 3 to 5 months.

Most denials occur because the SSA believes they do not have significant proof of a disability. Having as much documentation and evidence as possible when you first apply for SSDI can save you the hassle of appealing an SSDI denial. Be ready to present your case if you do need to go through disability adjudication.

More Mississippi Benefits

There are many benefits for Mississippi residents who require assistance. SSI or Supplemental Security Income is available for individuals who are blind, over the age of 65, and whose earnings are significantly below the poverty line with limited financial resources – no more than $2,000 in assets for an individual, and $3,000 for a couple.

The SSA will take a look to see if an SSDI applicant is also eligible for SSI benefits. In some cases, collecting both SSDI and SSI can increase their monthly benefit by almost $800. Additionally, SSI qualifies patients for Medicaid, while SSDI qualifies patients for Medicare two years after the disability onset date. In some instances, having both benefits makes sure there are no gaps in healthcare coverage.

Mississippi Medicaid is a health insurance program funded jointly by Mississippi and the federal government. Medicaid is often confused with Medicare, but while Medicare is a healthcare plan for seniors, Medicaid is a healthcare plan for low-income individuals who cannot afford health insurance.

For Mississippi residents who are out of work, Mississippi Unemployment benefits are provided through the Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MDES). Unemployment benefits help recipients until they can find a new job. In most cases, residents collecting benefits need to prove they are actively looking for new employment.

Mississippi Social Security Offices

Mississippi Hearing and Appeal Offices

Mississippi is in Region 4 (Atlanta), which services Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Nebraska provides aid to individuals living with a disability with help from the Social Security Administration (SSA) in the form of SSDI and SSI benefits.

Nebraska also has a state program called SDP, which offers extra assistance to disabled residents who do not qualify for SSI or Medicaid.

Facts About Nebraska

Nicknamed the Cornhusker State, Nebraska is the 37th state to become a part of the United States. With a population of 1.9 million as of 2019, Nebraska has one of the lowest populations in the country. Still, approximately 22.2% of adults in the state have some type of disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Nebraska disability determination comes from the Nebraska Department of Education. The Disability Determination Service (DDS) works to process each disability claim for Social Security disability benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Nebraska residents with a mobility, cognitive, hearing, vision, physical, or developmental disability may qualify for either Social Security disability benefit, depending on their current situation.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Nebraska

Nebraska SSDI claims go through a determination process to consider whether the applicant meets eligibility requirements. To qualify for SSDI in Nebraska, you must have lived in the state for at least a year, worked jobs covered by Social Security, and meet Social Security guidelines for a defined disability.

Nebraskans must have worked long enough and earned enough work credits to get Social Security disability benefits. For most people, 40 work credits are the minimum you need to qualify, and 20 of those credits need to be earned within 10 years before you became disabled.

How To Apply for SSDI in Nebraska

To apply for disability benefits in Nebraska, you can choose the method that works best for you. The Social Security Administration allows applicants to apply online at SSA.gov, by phone using SSA’s customer hotline at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or through your nearest Social Security field office. In Nebraska, there are six Social Security field offices where a claimant can apply in person or send an application by mail.

The application for disability benefits may require you to show documents that prove your birthdate and place, your income or current work status, and your U.S. citizenship. You will also need to indicate whether you were in the military service, have a spouse or dependents, and have or had employment that meets SSDI requirements for work credits.

If you have trouble applying for SSDI on your own, you may allow someone else to fill out your information. A friend or family member may help you, or you can contact the Social Security Administration to speak with someone over the phone who can help you apply. You might also seek guidance from Disability Rights Nebraska, an advocacy organization for Nebraskans with disabilities.

How To Appeal a Denial in Nebraska

As a rule of thumb, most applicants get denied for SSDI when they first apply. However, there is a set appeals process in place that can help you get the disability benefits you’re entitled to receive.

Nebraskans may request an appeal online or request the appeals form from their nearest Social Security field office. This starts the reconsideration process, allowing a new review of your claim by someone who wasn’t initially involved in your determination.

The next step in appeals is a disability hearing with an administrative law judge, followed by a review of the Appeals Council. You may continue to appeal with a final Federal Court review.

A lawyer experienced in disability appeals can help you through the process, but hiring an attorney or law firm isn’t required to appeal.

More Nebraska Benefits

For children, adults, seniors, students, and military service members, Nebraska citizens may receive financial assistance from the state in the form of disability, healthcare, or unemployment benefits.

SSI

Nebraska SSI benefits are reserved for eligible low-income individuals with a disability or are over age 65. Although SSI and SSDI are different programs, the SSA will automatically check to see if you qualify for SSDI when you apply with an initial application for SSI and vice versa.

To qualify for SSI in Nebraska, an applicant must have income that falls within SSA guidelines and have a disability that affects the individual’s ability to work or independent living status. Both adults and children may qualify for this benefit. You can apply for SSI online, by phone, or by visiting the same SSA field office you’d use to apply for SSDI benefits.

SDP

Nebraska’s State Disability Program provides medical and financial assistance to those who are blind or disabled. This program is for recipients who have been denied Medicaid and SSI because the disability is not expected to last 12 months.

Services are administered by the Aid To The Aged, Blind, Or Disabled (AABD) program, which provides financial assistance to individuals so they can remain in the most appropriate living arrangement for their needs. In some cases, the AABD program can also provide essential items such as home repairs, appliances, and furniture.

Nebraska Medicaid

Nebraska Medicaid assists needy families with accessing affordable healthcare. Both the state and federal government fund Nebraska’s Medicaid program to offer dental services, prenatal care, laboratory and radiology services, home health services, and other medically necessary procedures and services to families who otherwise cannot afford them.

Currently, a family of three can earn no more than $29,207 per year to qualify for Medicaid, and they may be required to pay co-pays for some visits and services.

Nebraska Medicaid also includes the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which expands assistance to children who may not qualify for Medicaid but still need access to medical insurance. Both programs are administered through Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services.

Nebraska Unemployment

Nebraska unemployment benefits provide citizens with financial assistance when laid off or experience a job loss for no at-fault circumstances. The Nebraska Department of Labor furnishes these benefits and others to get workers back into the workforce, like the Approved Training Program and Short-Time Compensation Program.

Nebraska residents can qualify for unemployment benefits by being available for work, being physically and mentally capable of working, and meeting minimum wage or income requirements during your base period at your previous job. Nebraska sets a base period as four out of the last five quarters.

Nebraska Social Security Offices

Nebraska Hearing and Appeal Offices

Nebraska is in Region 7 (Kansas City), which services Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri.

The Omaha Hearing Office services the cities of Lincoln NE, Omaha NE, Norfolk NE, Council Bluffs IA, Sioux City IA, Creston IA, and Carroll IA.

Tennessee provides Social Security benefits for its residents with disabilities. These benefits range from vocational rehabilitation and training to technological access to blind and deaf services. In addition to state services, adults in Tennessee may also qualify for federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Although SSDI and SSI are federal programs, they are each administered by state agencies. The Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) oversees this process through the Disability Determination Services (DDS). Tennessee has 28 Social Security offices and six Offices of Hearings and Appeals (OHA).

Facts About Tennessee

Tennessee’s disability rates are higher than the national average in almost every indicator, making it essential that those who need assistance can find it. In Tennessee, 29.5% of residents have some kind of disability compared with the national average of 25.6%. Of these, only 5.7% receive federal benefits. The most common types of disabilities in Tennessee are mobility and cognitive. It’s important to know that even if you have a disability, you still retain all your civil rights and should always attempt to apply for SSDI.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Tennessee

To qualify for SSDI in Tennessee, an applicant must meet the following criteria:

• You’ve worked for long enough as an employee or as self-employed and paid into Social Security taxes
• If you’re currently working while collecting disability payments, you cannot earn over $1,310 a month
• You have a “severe” condition that limits your ability to perform work for at least 12 months.  This can be a physical or intellectual disability, and those with a developmental disability can also qualify.
• Your condition is listed here. These conditions have all been predetermined by the SSA to be severe enough to impair the ability to work.

Potential recipients should also note they have the right to reasonable accommodation by their employer if they do have a disability. But, even if all criteria are met, it’s still not guaranteed you’ll receive SSDI benefits. Other factors such as receiving workers’ compensation or a personal injury settlement can affect your eligibility, and it’s best to consult with a Social Security disability lawyer if this applies to you.

How To Apply for SSDI in Tennessee

There are three main ways to file for Social Security Disability: online, over the phone, or in person.

Before applying for Social Security disability benefits you’ll need to gather the following information:

• Basic personal information like date and place of birth, marriage and divorce records, name and date of birth of minor children, and military records
• Current employment or self-employment information, if applicable
• Bank account routing information for direct deposit
• Alternative point of contact who can certify your conditions
• List of medical conditions along with medical records, test, and names of doctors
• Job and education history

Apply online: File your application online at the federal Social Security site.

Over the phone: Apply by phone with the federal Social Security office at 800-772-1213.

In person: Contact your local Tennessee field office listed below for assistance. Most offices require that you make an appointment before showing up for help.

How To Appeal a Denial in Tennessee

It’s not uncommon for your first application to be denied for SSDI benefits, but you shouldn’t take no for a first answer. In Tennessee, there are four levels of the appeals process for filing a claim: reconsideration, hearing, Appeals Council, and federal court. This process is the same for a physical or intellectual disability claim.

Step 1: Reconsideration – Within 60 days of your initial denial, you can request a new SSA representative from the DDS to review the details of your initial claim to make a new determination.

Step 2: Disability Hearing – If your reconsideration was denied, you can request a hearing with an administrative law judge within 60 days. This disability adjudication takes place in person at the closest hearing office available. Many claimants choose to or are asked to bring additional documentation about their disability, as well as providing witnesses who can attest to the disability. You may want to consult an attorney familiar with disability law for this step, but it is not required.

Step 3: Appeals Council – If your second appeal with the administrative law judge was denied, you have 60 days to request the Social Security Appeals Council review your case. This council will look at all preliminary decisions and decide if they’ll hear your case or if the previous decisions should be upheld.

Step 3: Federal Court – The last course of redress is to file a lawsuit by appealing to the district federal court. There are three district federal courts in Tennessee: The Eastern, Western, and Middle Districts.

For those whose disability application was denied after appealing, there is always the option of purchasing long-term disability insurance from a private provider.

More Tennessee Benefits

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another disability program run by the SSA. SSI is available to disabled individuals of any age with limited income. If you are over 65 years old, you do not need to be disabled to qualify for SSI, you just need to meet low-income requirements.

In 2021 the maximum SSI monthly benefit is capped at $794 for an individual. SSI is not funded through Social Security tax, rather through general funds of the U.S. Treasury.

Tennessee Medicaid

Many people who qualify for SSI also qualify for Tennessee Medicaid, commonly referred to as TennCare. TennCare provides medical insurance benefits primarily for those 65 or older or with a disability if they meet certain income requirements. 

Many Medicaid recipients use this as their primary medical insurance, while others may choose to keep a private plan with an insurance company in addition to TennCare. Medicaid can cover services like doctor’s visits, inpatient and outpatient hospital visits, transportation, and home health care.

Tennessee Unemployment

Tennessee Unemployment benefits provide financial help to those who have lost their job through no fault of their own. The program pays up to $275 a week for those who qualify.

Tennessee Social Security Offices

Tennessee Hearing and Appeal Offices

Tennessee is in Region 4 (Atlanta), which services Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Sometimes, even with reasonable accommodations, a person may suffer from physical or mental health challenges that prevent them from retaining gainful employment.

If a Wyoming resident has developmental disabilities, mental health issues, a terminal illness, or any other debilitating health challenges, they can file a disability claim to obtain Social Security disability benefits.

Facts About Wyoming

Around 26% of the adults in Wyoming have a disability, which is slightly higher than the national average of around 25%.

Examples of common disabilities include:

• Mobility challenges (such as difficulty walking or climbing stairs)
• Cognition challenges (such as difficulty concentrating or remembering)
• Hearing challenges

Less common disabilities are related to vision, independent living, and self-care – such as having difficulty doing errands, dressing, bathing, and making doctor’s appointments.

Studies show that adults with disabilities in Wyoming are twice as likely to smoke, have diabetes, or heart disease, and almost twice as likely to be obese. SSDI payouts and associated costs run up $1.4 billion per year in Wyoming, comprising around 31% of the Cowboy State’s healthcare expenses.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Wyoming

If an applicant has a disease on the list of SSA Compassionate Allowances, their application can be fast-tracked for approval. Fast-moving cancers and degenerative diseases are examples of such illnesses. Everything else will take about 3-5 months to get a decision from the Disability Determination Services.

The Disability Determination Services will need to see proof that you have a disability, which means your SSDI application will need to include medical records, hospital bills, letters from medical professionals, and anything else that can corroborate the existence of an SSA-approved disability for which you can collect Social Security Disability.

Your disability must prevent you from working at least 12 months or end in eventual death. However, in addition to being medical eligibility for SSDI, you must also be non-medically eligible. This means you have paid a sufficient amount of FICA taxes throughout your working career.

The SSA measures this in work credits, with $1,470 in earnings as an employee or self-employed individual meriting one work credit, with a maximum of four credits able to be earned per year. Usually, half of the 40 required credits for being SSDI eligible must come from the last decade, but if you are younger and applying for SSDI, the requirements may be lowered.

How To Apply for SSDI in Wyoming

There are just 5 different Social Security Administration field offices in the Equality State, which means that the nearest one to you may still be a bit of a car ride. Thankfully, you can also apply for SSDI over the phone by calling 1-800-772-1213, or you can even start your application online by visiting SSA.gov.

Keep in mind that as long as your SSDI case is open, you do not need to reapply. There will be a Continuing Disability Review by the SSA at least once every three years. If your condition is not expected to improve, your SSDI benefit eligibility will be reviewed once every 5-7 years.

If you are a disabled Veteran, you can also get funding from the VA. You can even collect SSDI benefits concurrently with your disability payments from the VA.

How To Appeal a Denial in Wyoming

If you disagree with the decision of the Wyoming Disability Determination Services, you can request a reconsideration, which allows you to add more evidence to your SSDI claim.

If your SSDI claim is still denied, you can request a hearing by an administrative law judge within 60 days of denial. The ALJ can return your SSDI claim to a different disability examiner if you present a convincing case. After that, the next step in the appeals process is to request a hearing from the Appeals Council, who can return it to a different ALJ. If your case is still denied, an attorney may be able to assist you in federal court.

In many cases, hiring an SSDI lawyer before filing your initial application can improve your chances of getting accepted for SSDI. If your claim for Social Security Benefits does go into disability adjudication, a disability attorney can appear for you at the disability hearing.

More Wyoming Benefits

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another SSA program. Administered at the state level, SSI benefits are available to low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or over the age of 65.

As long as your available financial resources are below $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple, you can obtain SSI benefits, which are up to $704 for an individual and $1,191 for a couple.

Most SSI recipients automatically qualify for other benefit programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and housing assistance. If you are approved for SSDI, you can also collect SSI as long as your income is not too high. That’s good news for SSDI recipients since SSDI-associated Medicare takes two years to kick in. Dual-eligible SSI/SSDI recipients can take advantage of Medicaid benefits while they wait for Medicare eligibility.

Wyoming Medicaid

Wyoming Medicaid is available for certain low-income earners and dependents with limited financial resources. Availability is based on income. For example, a family of four cannot have an income exceeding $35,245.

Wyoming Unemployment Insurance

For Wyoming residents out of work through no fault of their own, Wyoming Unemployment benefits provide weekly compensation to cover living expenses. The program is administered by the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services.

Wyoming Social Security Offices

Wyoming Hearing and Appeal Offices

Wyoming is in Region 8 (Denver), which services Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. 

The Casper Hearing Office is a satellite of the Denver ODAR office, and services the Wyoming cities of Casper, Cheyenne, Cody, Rock Springs, and Sheridan.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can help eligible disabled residents of Wisconsin cover housing, food, and transportation costs.

Wisconsin residents with a permanent disability necessitating long-term care, a developmental disability, or a mental illness can all benefit from Social Security Disability Benefits.

Facts About Wisconsin

Around one out of every five adults in America’s Dairyland has an SSA-approved disability, which is less than the national average of one out of every four. Mobility and cognition are the most common disability types, followed by independent living, vision, hearing, and self care.

Roughly 34% of the state’s healthcare costs go towards disabilities, equating to approximately $16 billion annually. Disabled individuals have a high threshold of expenses that are difficult to meet (housing, transportation, food) because of their difficulty retaining employment in the face of their disability.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Wisconsin

To qualify for SSDI benefits in the Badger State, you need to show the SSA that you have a disability as defined by the SSA, which has a Blue Book of hundreds of approved disabilities.

Medical records, hospital bills, and other forms of documentation should be included with your initial application to prove you are eligible for Social Security Disability. There is a list of Compassionate Allowances for diseases such as fast-moving cancers that can fast track an application, and assistive technology helps the SSA quickly identify which applications refer to such conditions.

Normally, an SSDI application might take 3-5 months to get a decision. Even if you don’t have a specific disability, you can demonstrate that you have a low Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) from conditions such as chronic back pain or difficulty concentrating. If this RFC prevents you from retaining gainful employment, you can also qualify for SSDI benefits.

An SSDI applicant must also show non-medical eligibility, or that they have the requisite number of 40 work credits. As of 2021, $1,470 in earnings through employment or self-employment equates to one work credit, and half of the required credits must have been earned in the past decade.

The work credit system is the Social Security Administration’s way of gauging whether or not you paid enough Social Security taxes (also called FICA taxes) to merit collecting SSDI. If you are younger, you may need fewer SSDI work credits.

Even after getting approved for the monetary assistance afforded by SSDI, SSDI recipients will need to undergo a periodic Continuing Disability Review (CDR) every three years – seven years for SSDI recipients whose condition is not expected to improve.

Fortunately, once someone collecting SSDI benefits has shown they have the requisite number of credits to collect SSDI, this periodic review will not involve checking their non-medical eligibility, since SSDI is offered under the assumption that they cannot work, anyway.

How To Apply for SSDI in Wisconsin

The easiest way to apply for SSDi is online at SSA.gov. You can call 1-800-492-4283 and start applying for SSDI over the phone. You can also apply in person, whether you live in Eau Claire, Madison, or Milwaukee, at one of the two dozen SSA field offices.

If you are not computer savvy or your disability prevents you from using a computer effectively, the SSA will be able to assist you with your application.

How To Appeal a Denial in Wisconsin

Around 66% of SSDI applications are denied with the initial application in Wisconsin, which is lower than the national average of 70%. If your SSDI application is not approved by the Disability Determination Service, you can request a reconsideration and furnish more evidence for your disability examiner.

If reconsideration doesn’t work, you can go before an Administrative Law Judge to present your case. The ALJ will either make a decision or return it to a different disability examiner.

The next step is to present your case before the Appeals Committee, and after that (if needed) there is the U.S. Federal Court system. However, it is unlikely your disability adjudication would go that far.

If you are working with an SSDI lawyer, you may be advised on some other options such as workers’ compensation. It’s good to meet with a Wisconsin SSDI lawyer at the outset of your application or as soon as you are no longer able to work due to a disability.

An SSDI lawyer is also relatively inexpensive since the maximum amount they can charge for their help is 25% of your SSDI back pay or $6,000 – whichever amount is lower. You typically don’t have to pay lawyer fees if your case is denied.

More Wisconsin Benefits

SSI

The SSA will also see if you can collect Supplemental Security Income (SSI) on top of your SSDI payments. With SSI, in addition to potentially giving you $700 or more in additional income, you will get Medicaid to bridge the healthcare coverage gap until Medicare kicks in after two years of SSDI.

SSI is available to low-income residents who are either blind, disabled, or over 65. Eligible recipients must have less than $2,000 ($3,000 for couples) in financial resources.

Wisconsin Medicaid

Wisconsin Medicaid is available to low-income individuals who are pregnant, have dependents under 18, have a disabled individual in the home, are disabled themselves, blind, or over the age of 65. Older adults can also take advantage of Medicare, a health insurance system with multiple parts (A, B, C, and D).

Wisconsin Unemployment

For Wisconsin residents out of work, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) provides Wisconsin unemployment benefits. These weekly payments help individuals who are out of work through no fault of their own.

Wisconsin Social Security Offices

Wisconsin Hearing and Appeal Offices

Wisconsin is in Region 5 (Chicago), which services Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. 

West Virginia disability benefits are available for adult residents of the state who have a disability that prevents them from working. West Virginia, like other U.S. states, provides two Social Security disability programs.

The first is the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which is available for eligible disabled adults who pay or have paid into the Social Security trust fund through payroll taxes.

West Virginia also offers Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which assists low-income residents who are blind, disabled, or over 65 years old.

Facts about West Virginia

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 39.2% of the West Virginian adult population have one form of disability or the other. In more comprehensive terms, the agency reports that 21.1% of adults in West Virginia have mobility challenges. 19.1% of the adult population of the state has severe troubles with cognition, while 12.6% of the adults in the state can’t live independently. 11.9% of the adults in West Virginia have suffered hearing losses, while 7.7% have visual impairment challenges.

The CDC reports that 6.1% of the state’s adult population has challenges taking care of themselves.

These are all members of the population with special needs. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration provides some benefits for them to live longer, happier lives.

How To Qualify for SSDI in West Virginia

SSDI is a federal government program for disabled members of the state who have contributed to the Social Security trust fund. The law governing the program is the same in all states, with only a few differences.

The SSA will pay SSDI benefits to a person with a long-term disability if they contributed to the Social Security trust fund. According to federal laws, a long-term disability must last at least one year.

Certain family members, such as a surviving spouse, can also receive SSDI benefits of an eligible recipient – regardless of whether the recipient is alive. The SSA will determine if your disability affects the quality of your work and approve your suit if it does.

Disabled residents who wish to work can also find gainful employment through West Virginia’s Division of Rehabilitation Services. Please note that earning above the SGA rate will disqualify you from receiving SSDI benefits. The Substantial Gainful Activity for 2021 is $1,310 and $2,190 for the blind.

How To Apply for SSDI in West Virginia

When applying for SSDI in West Virginia, you must submit your application to the Social Security Administration. You can do this by visiting any of the administration’s offices in the state or by filling an online form.

You can also speak with an SSA official on the phone or send a mail to file your Social Security disability claim. The SSA field office will determine if you meet the age requirements and have enough Social Security credits for the SSDI.

The SSA will forward your application to the West Virginia Department of Disability Determination Services. The DDS will assign a disability evaluation specialist, whose job it is to determine if you are eligible for SSDI.

When filling your disability claim, it is advised that you employ the services of a disability attorney. This is because only 30% of initial disability claims get the approval of the DDS in West Virginia.

Applicants that apply for reconsideration have an 11% approval rate. The hearing stage has a higher success rate, but you must wait for months before an administrative law judge can hear your case. The Office of Disability Adjudication and Review usually has an extensive backlog of cases that hinder quick hearings.

How To Appeal a Denial in West Virginia

If your initial application fails, you have four stages of the appeals process. You can ask for reconsideration to have the DDS assign another disability evaluation specialist to your case. If this also fails, you can request a disability hearing before an ALJ.

The waiting time for this stage is between 223 to 452 days. The approval rate for this stage is 53%, but you will do better with legal advice from a disability lawyer.

Having an experienced disability attorney can go a long way to help your suit – even during the initial stage. As an SSDI claimant, you should allow a disability lawyer to handle your claim right from scratch to avoid rejection and the rigorous stages that come after it.

More West Virginia Benefits

In addition to SSDI benefits, West Virginia residents can enjoy a variety of additional benefits.

Apply for SSI in West Virginia

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another Social Security benefit for eligible low-income West Virginia residents. If you qualify for SSI, the SSA will give you up to $794 or $1,191 for couples. Disabled adults and children, and residents who are 65 or older may qualify for SSI benefits in West Virginia. The state does not supplement SSI like some other states.

West Virginia Medicaid

The Department of Health and Human Resources oversees West Virginia Medicaid. The program allows low-income earners, disabled residents, and older citizens to access healthcare and assistive technology.

SSI recipients will usually qualify for Medicaid automatically. You could also get a Medicaid waiver even if you don’t receive SSI. To find out if you qualify, you can apply via the Health Insurance Marketplace or through West Virginia’s online client portal.

West Virginia Unemployment 

West Virginia Unemployment benefits are designed for people who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. Eligible recipients in West Virginia can be paid between $24 and $424 weekly for up to 26 weeks.

Residents of West Virginia who suffer from work-related disabilities can also receive workers’ compensation. You can submit a personal injury claim to the West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner.

West Virginia Social Security Offices

West Virginia Hearing and Appeal Offices

West Virginia is in Region 3 (Philadelphia), which services Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and District of Columbia.

Vermont residents seeking disability benefits can access aid through two federal programs, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These programs give financial support to individuals in the form of monthly compensation.

Funding comes from the federal government, though eligibility is evaluated at the state level. In Vermont, this is handled by the agency of Disability Determination Services (DDS) under the Vermont Department of Children and Families (DCF).

In addition to federal services, Vermont residents can qualify for state unemployment benefits, Medicaid, or workers’ compensation. Help is available to get back into the workforce through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. If you’re a veteran or on active duty service, you may also qualify for veterans benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Vermont has three Social Security offices located in Burlington, Rutland, and Montpelier as well as one Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA) in Manchester, NH.

Facts About Vermont

Around 22% of Vermont residents have a disability, which is below the national average. Still, only 5% of residents are receiving Vermont Social Security disability payments.

Those with the most need have a developmental disability or other mental health condition, followed by those with a physical disability that affects mobility. Vermont residents with a disability should apply for any program they may qualify for as most health care plans fall short of supplying complete disability assistance.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Vermont

No matter where you live in the United States, the requirements to qualify for Social Security disability benefits are the same. To be considered for the program, you generally must meet two requirements.

First, your disability must be considered severe enough to limit your ability to work for at least 12 months or end in death. To determine this, the SSA has compiled a comprehensive list of impairments it will approve for benefits. Though it’s possible to gain an exception if your condition is not on the list, it is far more likely that you’ll qualify if it is listed.

The second requirement is that you must have been employed long enough to have adequately paid into the Social Security program. For most people, this means 10 full years of employment, though waivers are available to those with special needs who have never been able to work because of their disability.

How To Apply for SSDI in Vermont

There are three main ways to file for Social Security Disability: online, over the phone, or in person.

The most efficient way for an applicant to submit their claim is online through the federal Social Security website. If you’d rather speak with someone directly, you can call the federal Social Security office at 800-772-1213, or apply in person at your closest Vermont office. If you choose to visit an office, you’ll need to call ahead to make an appointment.

You will also need to prepare supporting information and documentation ahead of time to include along with your application. Be prepared to supply personal information about you, your spouse, and any minor children, and have copies of marriage and divorce documents, school records, as well as any military records for disabled veterans applying for aid.

Lastly, you’ll need medical records detailing your past health care and any doctors or clinics that have provided services related to your disability.

How To Appeal a Denial in Vermont

Vermont state has a rather high initial approval rate of 44% compared with the national average of 35%. Still, that means that 56% of applicants will be denied after submitting their disability application. Because of this, there is a set method for appealing the decision. These steps must be taken in order and each must be initiated within 60 days of the preceding denial.

The first and easiest step is to request to have a new SSA representative from DDS reconsider your claim to make a revised determination. Approximately 21% of applications will receive approval at this stage.

The next step is to request a disability adjudication with an administrative law judge. Your hearing will be scheduled at your closest SSA Hearing Office, but this can take up to a year to get an appointment. You will likely need to bring additional documentation or witnesses and many people choose to hire a lawyer at this point. However, over half of the applications are approved after the hearing stage.

Those who still wish to press for benefits must now request the Social Security Appeals Council review your case. The main job of the council is to review the lower decisions to see if an error was made.

The last option is to appeal to the district federal court. At this point, you will need an attorney to help file your claim.

More Vermont Benefits

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another disability program run by the SSA. Like SSDI, SSI will grant monthly cash benefits for Vermont residents, but you do not necessarily have to have a disability to qualify. SSI benefits are reserved for low-income individuals who are either blind, disabled, or over the age of 65. If you are over age 65, you do not need to have a disability to qualify for SSI.

Vermont Medicaid

Any person who qualifies for SSI in Vermont will automatically qualify for Vermont Medicaid, commonly called Green Mountain Care. Once you are approved for SSI you will get a separate letter of acceptance from Medicaid outlining your benefits. Green Mountain Care provides free or extremely low-cost health care to residents with low incomes.

Vermont Unemployment

Vermont Unemployment benefits provide temporary benefits for up to 26 weeks for workers who have lost their job through no fault of their own. The program is run through Vermont’s Department of Labor and is funded entirely by employer contributions to the unemployment insurance trust fund. The maximum weekly benefit is currency $531.

Vermont Social Security Offices

Vermont Hearing and Appeal Offices

Vermont is in Region 1 (Boston), which services Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

Vermont hearings are held in Manchester, NH.

If you’re a disabled person and a resident of Washington DC, you have access to both federal Social Security benefits and district-run benefits. On the federal level, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

On the district level, DC residents have access to services for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). The DDA provides advocacy work to provide housing access, services for young adults with disabilities, COVID-19 pandemic assistance, and independent living services.

Residents, as well as federal employees, may also wish to contact the DC Coalition of Disability Service Providers, a local advocate for disability rights.

While those in Washington DC may qualify for federal disability benefits through SSDI and SSI, each program is administered by a state agency. This is done by the District’s Disability Determination Division (DDD) who processes all claims sent through the SSA. Washington DC has three Social Security offices and one Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA).

Facts About Washington DC Disability

Washington DC’s disability rates are lower than the national average with around 24% of residents having some kind of disability.

Unfortunately, many in the District of Columbia go without disability services. Over the last ten years, D.C.’s rate of approval for first-time claims has steadily fallen, meaning more residents aren’t getting much-needed benefits.

The most common types of disabilities D.C. residents have are mobility-related, like MS or being wheelchair-bound, or cognitive-related, such as bipolar disorder or other serious mental health conditions.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Washington DC

Applicants for SSDI in Washington DC must meet the same criteria as those across the nation. These guidelines are set by the SSA and generally fall into two main requirements: You must have worked for long enough to pay into Social Security, and your disability must be concerned “severe.”

Most people must have worked for at least ten years to pay sufficiently into the SSA fund. You may be able to obtain a waiver if you have a significant disability that has made it impossible to hold steady employment.

You can be currently employed and still be eligible for benefits, but there are income caps. Currently, you cannot earn over $1,310 a month and still receive a benefit.

The SSA has compiled a comprehensive list of disabilities considered severe enough to limit your ability to perform work for at least 12 months or end in death. All applicants should check this list to ensure their disability is on it, as it is much more difficult to qualify if it’s not included.

Potential recipients should also note they are protected from disability discrimination at the workplace through current disability legislation. All workers have the right to reasonable accommodation by their employer to help complete their job duties.

How To Apply for SSDI in Washington DC

There are three ways to file for Social Security Disability: online, over the phone, or in person. Those wishing to apply online can submit an application online at the federal Social Security site, and the information will be forwarded to DDD.

Over the phone, you can call the federal Social Security office at 800-772-1213. Or, you can call and make an appointment to visit one of D.C.’s three field offices located in Anacostia, Postal Plaza, and downtown Washington DC.

Before applying for benefits, you should gather pertinent information to include in your application. While the documentation needed will differ from person to person, there are some general guidelines you can follow.

You will be asked to provide basic personal information about yourself, your spouse, and any children, including date and place of birth, and marriage and divorce records. Disabled veterans should also include any military records.

You will also need to bring medical evidence including test results, medications, and contact information for doctors and clinics you’ve received treatment for regarding your disability.

How To Appeal a Denial in Washington DC

Although D.C.’s initial approval rate is slightly higher than the national average (38% compared with 35%), that still means the majority of applicants will not receive benefits with their first application. Since you will likely need to appeal the first decision, it’s good to familiarize yourself with the appeals process.

In the District of Columbia, there are four levels of the appeals process for filing a claim: reconsideration, hearing, Appeals Council, and federal court. Each step must be completed in order, and must be initiated within 60 days of the preceding denial.

Step 1: Reconsideration – The first step is to request to have a new SSA representative from the DDD review the details of your initial claim to make a revised determination. In D.C., 12% of reconsideration requests end in approval.

Step 2: Disability Hearing – If your reconsideration was denied, you can then request a hearing with an administrative law judge that will be scheduled at the D.C. hearing office at 1227 25th Street N.W. An individual may choose to employ a lawyer familiar with disability law as you will often need to bring additional evidence or witnesses to support your claim. Forty-five percent of cases are approved at this stage.

Step 3: Appeals Council – If your hearing was unsuccessful, you will then request the Social Security Appeals Council review your case. This council will look at prior decisions to decide if those rulings should be upheld or overturned.

Step 3: Federal Court – Your last option is to file a lawsuit with the district federal court. You will likely need to retain an attorney at this point.

More Washington DC Benefits

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another disability program run by the SSA for low-income residents of Washington DC. Unlike SSDI, you don’t necessarily have to have a disability to qualify for benefits. SSI is available to any senior citizen 65+ with or without a disability, and to those of any age who are blind or have a disability. You will also need to meet low-income requirements.

Washington DC Medicaid

If you are receiving SSI benefits, you are automatically eligible for Washington DC Medicaid. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides medical insurance benefits for individuals who meet certain income requirements.

Washington DC Unemployment

Washington DC Unemployment benefits provide financial help to any person who has lost their job through no fault of their own. The program pays up to $444 a week for up to 26 weeks.

Washington, D.C. Social Security Offices

Washington, D.C. Hearing and Appeal Offices

Washington, D.C. is in Region 3 (Philadelphia), which services Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and District of Columbia. 

The District of Columbia Hearing Office services the areas of Anacostia, “M” Street, Postal Plaza, Shepard’s Park, Camp Springs MD, Charlotte Hall MD, Greenbelt MD, Rockville MD, Silver Spring MD, Alexandria VA, Arlington VA, Fairfax VA, and Manassas VA.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a form of disability insurance available for adults in Oklahoma who are suffering from some form of disability that stops them from earning a living as they would if they did not have the condition.

Conducted by the Social Security Administration, the program is available for adults with disabilities who have paid into the Social Security trust fund by being employed.

This article contains everything you need to know about disability payments in Oklahoma as well as information about other benefits such as the Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and unemployment benefits.

Facts about Oklahoma

SSDI benefits can be accessed by all qualified residents of Oklahoma.

The CDC reports that 33.9% of Oklahoma adults have disabilities. 18.0% of the adults in Oklahoma have mobility disabilities, 9.5% have problems with independent living, 15.2% have issues with cognition, 9.3% have hearing-related disabilities and 6.6 % of the adults in Oklahoma have vision-related disabilities. The CDC also reports that Oklahoma disability health care costs are approximately 4.7 billion per annum.

The Social Security Administration reports that 96,804 people received SSDI benefits in Oklahoma in 2019. 

The Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services has a complete guide on all disability services and benefits that the state provides.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Oklahoma

The Social Security Administration oversees SSDI in Oklahoma. The administration conducts SSDI through the Disability Determination Services, a division of the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services.

In Oklahoma, SSDI qualification requirements are in line with federal disability laws. The DDS determines which SSDI claims are approved. The law states that individuals with disabilities who pay into the Social Security Trust Fund per the stipulations of the Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA) can receive disability benefits.

A surviving spouse may also lay claim to the disability benefits of a deceased spouse who was receiving or was qualified to receive disability benefits. In addition, if you are an Oklahoma veteran with disabilities, you can receive disability payments from both SSDI and Veteran Affairs.

A person with disabilities can get reasonable accommodation from an employer so they can keep working. However, if they earn over $1,310 ($2,190 for blinds) per month, they would no longer be qualified for SSDI.

Another important exemption is a person with a short-term disability. If your disability has not or will not last up to one year, you are not qualified to apply for disability benefits under federal law.

How To Apply for SSDI in Oklahoma

You can apply for a Social Security disability claim in Oklahoma by paying a visit to any of the 18 local Social Security offices in the state. You can fill your disability service online or apply via phone call.

Adults with developmental disabilities, disabilities from years of military service, and others are urged to apply for SSDI benefits. In Oklahoma, every disability application will pass through the Social Security field office and the disability determination division of the DRS. The DDS disability examiner will examine an applicant to determine if such an applicant genuinely qualifies for disability payments.

After you submit your form, you might have to wait for several months before getting approval. If your application is approved, you won’t start receiving payments until after five months.

How To Appeal a Denial in Oklahoma

The approval rate of disability benefits in Oklahoma is fairly low, especially at the initial stage. However, applicants can appeal up to four times.

First, you can request a reconsideration of your disability application. At this stage, applicants are allowed to provide additional information or documents that can help their application.

If the reconsideration still does not provide a desirable result, you can apply for a hearing. An administrative judge will hear your suit. You can employ the services of a Social Security disability lawyer from a reputable law firm to argue your case.

If the appeal hearing fails, you can proceed to apply for a review with the Social Security Appeals Council. If that also fails, you can file a civil lawsuit within sixty days after you receive the verdict of the appeals council. Your disability attorney will be of assistance if you receive a denial.

More Oklahoma Benefits

In addition to SSDI benefits, Oklahoma residents can get SSI, Medicaid, and unemployment benefits. These services are designed to help residents of Oklahoma who have challenges purchasing basic needs and paying for medical care.

Apply for SSI in Oklahoma

Low-income earners and children and adults with disabilities may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income. A worker who cannot afford basic needs and healthcare costs can get SSI benefits in Oklahoma.

Low-income earners who have no disabilities but are 65 or older can also receive SSI in the state. Supplemental Security Income payments are less than SSDI compensation and there is a shorter waiting period.

Beneficiaries can start receiving SSI payments a few days after the approval of their application.

Another difference between SSDI and SSI is that families of the beneficiaries of SSI cannot receive payments on behalf of a family member. However, if you are a disadvantaged student, you can apply for SSI to get a higher education.

Oklahoma Medicaid

Oklahoma Medicaid benefits are available for low-income residents of Oklahoma who cannot afford healthcare costs due to their low incomes. Oklahoma’s Medicaid provider is SoonerCare.

Pregnant women, people with visual disabilities, residents responsible for a child of eighteen years old or younger, residents that have disabilities or are responsible for a family member with disabilities, and residents who are at least 65 years old can benefit from Medicaid services if they cannot afford it on their own.

Oklahoma Unemployment

Another benefit is the Oklahoma unemployment benefits. This benefit is available for residents who lose their jobs as a result of situations beyond their control. The unemployment insurance services are administered by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, which operates an online portal for administering unemployment benefits.

Oklahoma Social Security Offices

Oklahoma Hearing and Appeal Offices

Oklahoma is in Region 6 (Dallas), which services Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

SSDI benefits can help Connecticut residents who have a long-term disability that prevents them from working for at least 12 months. 

Typically, an SSDI application will only be approved if the claimant has paid a significant amount of Social Security taxes through employee payroll deductions.

Facts About Connecticut

Approximately one in four adults across the US has a disability, according to the CDC. In the Constitution State, that ratio is lower, with one in every five. The Land of Steady Habits (as it’s also called) seems to be aptly named since disabled Connecticut residents are significantly less likely to be obese, smoke, inactive, or have high blood pressure than disabled Americans across the country.

But even though a disabled Connecticut resident is more likely to be healthy than the national average, disabilities can still make life financially challenging. Thankfully, SSDI benefits can help defray expenses like housing, food, and transportation.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Connecticut

If you hope to qualify for Connecticut Social Security disability, you will need to show the SSA that you are a qualified person medically and non-medically. The non-medical qualification relates to how many work credits you have attained through employment, where you paid Social Security taxes (also called FICA taxes).

$1,470 in net earnings gives you one work credit, and the most you can attain per year is four. You will need 40 to qualify for the disability program, and 20 of those credits must be from the past decade.

The medical component of your disability application must prove that you have a qualified disease or condition that debilitates you for at least 12 months or will eventually result in death. Sometimes, a disability claim will be fast-tracked if the disease is on the list of Compassionate Allowances, such as fast-moving cancers.

To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, your disability application will need to contain sufficient proof of this condition such as medical records, letters from doctors, and hospital bills. Sometimes, it helps to seek out legal advice from a Social Security disability lawyer who can assist you in packaging your disability claim in the most convincing way.

As many as 70% of SSDI claims are turned away initially. In addition to improving your chances with your disability claim at the outset, an SSDI lawyer can help you see if another route like workers’ compensation would behoove you more, or if you should pursue a disability hearing.

How To Apply for SSDI in Connecticut

A Connecticut resident with an SSDI claim needs to show the Disability Determination Service that they are medically and non-medically qualified. Non-medical qualification means you have paid enough Social Security taxes. The medical qualification is determined if an eligible applicant has an SSA-approved condition like a particular developmental disability or mental illness.

There are hundreds of different disabilities listed in the SSA Blue Book, but even if you do not have a specific disability, you can show that your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) is too low to retain any gainful employment.

If these two components are in place and you have your medical records in order, you can apply online right on the Social Security Administration website, or over the phone at 800-772-1213. You could also go into one of the 15 Social Security office locations around the Nutmeg State.

How To Appeal a Denial in Connecticut

If the SSA does not approve your SSDI application, you can go through the process of Disability Adjudication with Disability Determination Services. The first course of action is to request a reconsideration so you can provide more evidence, whether that is medical documentation to build a case for your disability, or documents relating to how much Social Security tax you paid throughout your employment or self-employment history.

If the reconsideration does not go as hoped, you can request a hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge, who may return your application to a different disability examiner.

The next level of appeal is the Appeals Council, which may return your case to a different ALJ or decide it themselves. Unfortunately, many SSDI applications need to go through disability adjudication. One way to reduce this likelihood is to get a disability lawyer in The Nutmeg State to assist with your claim.

More Connecticut Benefits

SSI

If someone does not have sufficient work history to qualify for SSDI, they may be able to obtain Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is a similar program with some key differences in terms of eligibility and monthly benefit.

Supplemental Security Insurance is available for low-income earners who are disabled, blind, or over the age of 65. The maximum amount of SSI an individual can collect is $794 for an individual and $1,191 for an eligible couple – so note that separate SSI benefits do not necessarily combine into a larger total. However, there is no work credit requirement for SSI. 

Even if you do qualify for SSDI, you may be able to collect SSI as well, which not only can increase your income by $794, but can also make sure you have no gaps in medical coverage, because it takes two years for Medicare to kick in with SSDI, and SSI recipients get medical assistance right away.

Connecticut Medicaid

Husky Health is the Connecticut Medicaid program. Medicaid is a government program jointly funded and administered by the federal and state governments to provide low-income earners with health insurance. In Connecticut, Husky Health has different parts (A, B, C, and D), each one applicable to a different demographic. For example, Husky D is for low-income earners with dependents.

Connecticut Unemployment Insurance

There are also Connecticut Unemployment benefits, which are paid through the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services. These unemployment benefits are available to those who are out of work through no fault of their own, available to work, and seeking unemployment. 

Note that “no fault” according to Connecticut Law does not necessarily preclude collecting unemployment if you were terminated against your will unless you engaged in willful misconduct.

Connecticut Social Security Offices

Connecticut Hearing and Appeal Offices

Connecticut is in Region 1 (Boston), which services Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

Disabled South Carolina residents with special needs have access to a variety of federal and state services.

Federal assistance is available through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), both run by the Social Security Administration (SSA). These programs are federally funded but are administered through state agencies.

In South Carolina, Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews applications and works with the SSA to determine eligibility.

In addition to Social Security disability benefits, a disabled resident may also qualify for Medicaid (Healthy Connections), unemployment insurance, workers’ compensation, or income assistance through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

At this time, the state does not offer any short-term disability due to personal injury, though you may be eligible through your employer. Residents with disabilities may wish to contact the Center for Disability Resources for more help. This organization provides assistance and advocacy for those with developmental disabilities like autism and other developmental delays.

Facts About South Carolina

Around 30% of South Carolina’s population has a disability of one kind or another. The largest proportion of individuals have mobility or cognitive-related conditions. Out of these disabled individuals, 40% are more likely to be overweight and 27% are likely to smoke. The numbers are higher than the state averages of 33% and 15% respectively.

South Carolina pays $12 billion annually for disability-related healthcare costs, which is 36% of the state’s overall spending on healthcare.

How To Qualify for SSDI in South Carolina

South Carolina residents applying for SSDI benefits must meet the same criteria set forth by the SSA as the rest of the nation. Although these are federal requirements, your application will be forwarded to South Carolina DDS to review and determine if you meet all the standards.

Each state works under the framework that the SSA sets forth, but each state has different approval ratings based on its findings. South Carolina approves approximately 37% of all first time applications which is just above the national average of 35%.

There are two main benchmarks that your disability claim must meet to be considered for a monthly benefit.

First, you must show that you’ve worked long enough and have contributed to the Social Security tax. This typically means ten years of employment, though a waiver may be granted by the Social Security office if your disability is so severe you’ve never been able to work.

The second requirement is that your disability must be considered “severe.” It should be listed in the SSA Blue Book of approved disabilities. This is a comprehensive list of physical and mental impairments from autism spectrum disorder to asthma to chronic liver disease. 

The SSA must deem your disability to be severe enough to impact your ability to work for at least 12 months or end in death. It is possible to be approved if your condition is not on this list, but your chances are much more likely if it’s included.

How To Apply for SSDI in South Carolina

An applicant can send in their request for Social Security Disability benefits in one of three ways: online, by phone, or in person. The quickest way to apply is through the federal Social Security site, but you can also call the national number at 800-772-1213 for step-by-step instructions.

You can also apply in person at your local Social Security field office. In South Carolina, there are 17 offices to choose from, but you should call first to make an appointment.

Before you apply, take the time to gather all relevant information and supporting documents. This should include medical records as well as names and contact information of doctors and clinics. You will also need to supply basic personal information about you, your spouse, and your children – including date of birth, Social Security number, and employment history.

How To Appeal a Denial in South Carolina

South Carolina has steadily been increasing their initial approval rate over the last 10 years. However, even with a 37% acceptance rate, this still leaves the majority of applicants with no benefit.

Those preparing an SSDI claim should expect to go through at least one stage of the appeals process to complete their application. With each level, you have 60 days from the time you receive your denial to file your new claim.

Reconsideration

The reconsideration phase is usually fairly fast and does not require the assistance of an attorney. In this stage, you can request to have a new disability examiner look at your initial application to see if an error was made. Around 11% of applications receive approval at this stage.

Disability Hearing

In the second stage of appeals, many people choose to hire a disability lawyer for legal advice. When you request a hearing (called a disability adjudication) with an administrative law judge, it will be scheduled at one of three Hearing and Appeals offices in South Carolina: North Charleston, Columbia, or Mauldin.

You will likely be asked to bring additional supporting documentation or witnesses, and around 55% of cases are approved at this stage. Unfortunately, it can take over a year to receive an appointment.

Appeals Council

Most people will not have to employ the third level of appeal, but if you do you’ll apply for an appeal online with the Social Security Appeals Council. The purpose of this council is to review all lower determinations to see if a mistake was made.

Federal Court

The final level of appeal is to file a lawsuit at the district federal court in South Carolina. At this point, you will want to contact a law firm to retain a social security disability lawyer.

More South Carolina Benefits

SSI

Many people who receive SSDI may also receive SSI benefits. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another federal insurance program intended for those with low-income residents, and you don’t necessarily have to have a disability to qualify.

To be eligible you must be disabled, blind, or over age 65. All applicants must meet low income and limited resources requirements. When you apply for SSDI, your application will automatically be reviewed to see if you also qualify for SSI.

South Carolina Medicaid

If you already qualify for and receive SSI, you are automatically entitled to receive South Carolina Medicaid (Healthy Connections). Medicaid is a joint state and federal health insurance program for low-income individuals who could not afford coverage on their own.

Healthy Connections is run by the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS) and provides free or low-cost insurance to South Carolinians.

South Carolina Unemployment

A person who has become unemployed through no fault of their own may qualify for South Carolina Unemployment benefits. This program provides temporary financial help for up to 20 weeks and has a maximum weekly payout of $316.

South Carolina Social Security Offices

South Carolina Hearing and Appeal Offices

South Carolina is in Region 4 (Atlanta), which services Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Service makes disability determinations for Kentucky state residents. 

Using federal guidelines for both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, the Cabinet’s Disability Determination Services makes sure that those who technically and medically qualify for disability benefits receive the assistance they need. 

These programs play a large role in providing financial security for some of Kentucky’s most vulnerable residents.

Facts About Kentucky

Roughly 35% of Kentucky’s population reports living with a disability, compared to the national average of just over 25%. Connecting state of Kentucky residents with the resources and assistance they need is a priority for the state.

These disabilities add up to an estimated $5.8 billion in disability-related healthcare costs for the state each year – which isn’t too surprising considering that adults with disabilities are less likely to be active, more likely to be obese, more likely to smoke and more likely to have high blood pressure.

For all categories of disabilities – mobility-related, cognitive, inability to live independently, hearing, vision and disabilities affective self-care – Kentucky residents report higher incidences of disability than the U.S. at large. Programs like SSDI and SSI help these residents access the services and assistance they need.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Kentucky

SSDI is a federal program, so the eligibility requirements are the same across all U.S. states. A Social Security field office in the state of Kentucky will first determine technical eligibility for the SSDI program – meaning that a claimant has worked enough and earned enough SSDI credits to qualify for the program by having taxes taken out of their income to augment the Social Security Trust Fund.

The claimant must also be deemed disabled. According to the federal SSDI definition, an adult must be rendered unable to work by a physical or mental impairment(s) that has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or to result in death. It’s important to note that this stipulation includes any type of employment, not just the type of work that the claimant was previously engaged in.

Of the nearly 3 million residents of the state of Kentucky, roughly 7% receive Social Security disability benefits each month. Keep in mind that the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability is extremely narrow. The SSA will only support total disability rulings. If you choose to seek legal advice, a qualified disability attorney can help you decide whether your situation is likely to lead to a successful disability claim.

How To Apply for SSDI in Kentucky

In order to apply for SSDI benefits, a claimant should submit a Social Security disability claim at any one of Kentucky’s 27 Social Security offices across the state. You can also submit a claim over the phone at 800-772-1213 or online at www.ssa.org.

Once your claim is submitted, it will first be reviewed by a local Social Security office to determine if you meet non-disability requirements. If the answer is yes, then your claim is forwarded to the state of Kentucky’s Disability Determination Service for review.

DDS then will examine medical evidence and documentation related to your claim and may also ask you to participate in an independent medical evaluation. DDS eventually will issue a decision, based on the documentation presented, about whether your case meets the SSA definition of disability.

How To Appeal a Denial in Kentucky

If your initial claim for disability benefits is denied, you have the option to appeal the decision. You must ask for reconsideration within 60 days of receiving your denial notice. Please know that the denial of an initial claim is fairly common. In Kentucky, only 29% of benefit claims are approved on first submission.

Upon appeal, your claim and medical records will be reviewed by a different person, an examiner who did not participate in your original review. If this results in a second denial, you may request a disability hearing review by the Social Security Administration’s Appeals Council.

If you remain dissatisfied with the determination at this stage, your final appeal is a federal court case filed in the district court for the judicial district in which you live. Decisions made at this level are considered final. At any point during the appeal process, you may decide to partner with a disability attorney for trusted counsel and advice on how best to proceed.

More Kentucky Benefits

In addition to SSDI benefits, the state of Kentucky administers other programs that help disabled Kentucky residents access both the financial aid and appropriate health care they need for independent living.

SSI

Supplemental Security Income is a federal program that helps provide financial assistance to those who have low levels of income and accrued assets, with a particular focus on those who are disabled, are blind, or are over age 65. A single adult can receive up to $794 per month in SSI benefits and also is granted Medicaid coverage without needing to file a separate application for that program. Unlike SSDI, applicants do not need to have worked previously or earned credits in order to qualify.

Kentucky Medicaid

Kentucky’s Medicaid program aims to help low-income Kentucky residents gain access to the vital health care they need. The two key eligibility requirements for Medicaid in Kentucky are you must be a Kentucky resident and you must be a U.S. citizen or legally authorized to live and work in the U.S.

Other criteria that may make residents eligible for Kentucky Medicaid include being pregnant, being responsible for a child under age 18, or having a disability or living with a family member who is disabled. Applicants must meet federal income standards for the Medicaid program, which are based on household income and total household size.

Kentucky Unemployment

Kentucky unemployment benefits help bridge the income gap for Kentucky residents who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own.

Unemployment benefits are issued on a weekly basis and help provide overall economic stability not only for individual households affected by unemployment, but also for local communities and for the comprehensive statewide economy.

To remain eligible for weekly benefits, Kentucky unemployed workers must show that they are physically and mentally able to work and available to accept suitable work when it is offered.

Kentucky Social Security Offices

Kentucky Hearing and Appeal Offices

Kentucky is in Region 4 (Atlanta), which services Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

The Illinois Department of Human services’ Disability Determination Services administers the state’s Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. The program assists those who are unable to work due to a disability.

Illinois DDS is charged with issuing determinations about which citizens are eligible for SSDI benefits and Social Security Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The DDS will collect and review all of your medical records and information and may also schedule a consultative examination for you with a medical doctor the DDS retains.

If you live in Illinois and have a disability that keeps you from being able to work, one or both of these programs may be able to help. These disability programs offer financial benefits for disabled individuals but with much different financial eligibility requirements.

Facts About Illinois

Roughly one in four (23%) of all Illinois residents report suffering from some form of medical disability. These disabilities cost the state of Illinois approximately $32.8 billion per year in health care costs – equal to around 33% of the state’s total health care spending. This balances out to nearly $19,000 per disabled Illinois resident.

Residents of Illinois are most likely to report disabilities that deal with either mobility or cognition. Out of the estimated 8 million residents of the state of Illinois, roughly 3.5% receive some form of Social Security disability benefits.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Illinois

In the state of Illinois, qualified SSDI claimants must be currently disabled and have enough work credits. These work credits are earned by staying employed over the years and paying FICA taxes on each paycheck.

In addition to the work credits requirement, you must also meet the Social Security Administration’s strict definition of disability. Based on your medical records, background information, and other documentation, the Illinois DDS will determine whether the disability meets the criteria. The DDS must also determine if your medical condition is expected to last at least a year and/or for the duration of your life.

Please note that the SSA definition of disability sets a high bar and is often difficult to prove. Many applications for Social Security benefits in Illinois are denied during their first submission and must file an appeal.

Once a person is approved for Social Security benefits in Illinois, their local Social Security office will determine the monthly disability benefit amount and will advise the recipient when to expect the first monthly benefit check.

SSDI services are administered through 56 local offices located throughout the state of Illinois. To find your nearest Social Security office, you may call 800-772-1213. A service representative will be able to tell you your nearest SSA office based on your city, state, and zip code.

How To Apply for SSDI in Illinois

The easiest way to apply for SSDI benefits is online at ssa.gov/benefits/disability.

You also may apply at your local SSA office, though some offices require you to make an appointment in advance. The third option for submitting your disability application is over the phone by calling 800-772-1213.

It’s important to provide thorough and complete information. You will be asked to provide information about your education, medical condition, medical treatments for that condition, and your comprehensive work history for up to 15 years.

Many initial claims are denied because the application response is incomplete or does not provide sufficient medical records, appropriate documentation, and thorough information.

Once your application is submitted, it generally takes around 90 days to receive a determination notice.

How To Appeal a Denial in Illinois

In Illinois, nearly 60% of all initial SSDI claims are denied. But after your initial application remains two additional stages of review – reconsideration and disability hearing with an administrative law judge.

If your initial disability claim is denied, don’t lose hope. You can request that it be reviewed by an SSA representative who was not involved in your first review. At this point, it may be helpful to speak with an experienced and knowledgeable disability attorney. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your chances of being approved, and chart your path through the appeal process.

More Illinois Benefits

In addition to the SSDI program, the state of Illinois offers the following programs to eligible Illinois residents.

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program designed to provide monthly financial benefits to low-income residents who are age 65 or older, are blind, or disabled.

In Illinois, you can expect to receive up to $771 per month in federal SSI payments as a single individual or $1,157 for couples. If you have documentation to show that your expenses exceed the total amount of your SSI benefits, the Illinois Aid to the Aged, Blind and Disabled program may help supplement your federal SSI check. If you have questions about whether you qualify for either of these programs, a disability attorney may be able to help you.

Illinois Medicaid

You also may be eligible for the Illinois Medicaid program if you meet income and asset requirements. Also, if you are blind or disabled, you may qualify for Medicaid if your income is at or below the federal poverty level.

To be eligible for Medicaid in Illinois, you must be a resident of the state of Illinois, a U.S. citizen, or legally authorized to live and work in the United States. Your financial situation should be considered as low income or very low income, as determined by its relationship to the federal poverty level.

Eligible candidates must also be one of the following:

• Pregnant
• Responsible for a child 18 years old or younger
• Blind
• Disabled or have a family member in the household with a documented disability
• 65 years old or older

Illinois Unemployment

Unemployment insurance in Illinois is a state-operated program designed to partially compensate Illinois residents for loss of wages when they lose employment through no fault of their own.

Illinois unemployment benefits help ensure that those who meet eligibility requirements will receive some level of income while looking for work. This, in turn, helps provide economic stability to individual families, local communities, and the state of Illinois at large.

Illinois Social Security Offices

Illinois Hearing and Appeal Offices

Illinois is in Region 5 (Chicago), which services Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

In Arizona, disabled adults who meet specific requirements may receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration.

Social Security Disability Insurance is a federal government program designed to help disabled adult citizens. Eligible recipients must have earned enough Social Security credits and cannot earn more than the SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity) rate for that year. In 2021, the SGA was $1,310 and $2,190 for people who have lost their eyesight.

Since SSDI is a federal program, Arizona is no different from other states regarding benefits. However, Arizona does provide some additional disability services as well.

Facts About Arizona

The CDC estimates that 25.8% of the adults in the Grand Canyon State are disabled. In addition, approximately 12.6% of the adult population in the state has mobility disabilities, 11.2% have cognition challenges, 6.8% can’t live independently, 5.9% have suffered hearing loss, and 4.7% have vision impairment challenges.

Members of the Arizona disability population can benefit from SSDI, Arizona’s Workers’ Compensation program, Supplemental Security Income, and Medicaid.

Arizona’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services also help disabled residents secure employment.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Arizona

SSDI is a federal government program overseen by the SSA. As such, federal disability laws apply. 

In Arizona, the SSA administers the program through the state’s Department of Determination Services. The Arizona Department of Economic Security runs the DDS. Though SSDI applicants submit their disability benefit applications to Social Security, the DDS examines applicants and approves disability claims.

To be approved by the DDS, certain conditions must be met. For example, the state gives long-term disability benefits to disabled adults who have paid into the Social Security trust fund while working for at least five years during the ten years preceding the application.

Disabled veterans can also receive SSDI in Arizona, even if they already receive benefits from Veterans Affairs. Anyone with a developmental disability or long-term disability can apply for SSDI in Arizona. However, SSDI does not cover any short-term disability, defined as a disability or illness that is expected to last less than 12 months and is not life-threatening.

How To Apply for SSDI in Arizona

SSDI applicants must send their disability claim applications to the Social Security Administration. To apply for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits in Arizona, you can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. There are 18 Social Security field offices in Arizona.

In addition to other personal information, the SSA requires the applicant’s name, Social Security number, and proof of age, citizenship, and work history.

Once you submit your information, your application is transferred to Arizona’s Disability Determination Services (DDS). The department examines your medical records and may schedule you for a physical examination. You will be notified once the DDS makes a decision.

How To Appeal a Denial in Arizona

The approval rate for the initial stage of SSDI applications in Arizona is approximately 34%. These figures are just below the national approval rate. Not to worry – if you are denied benefits, you can appeal a rejected disability claim up to four times.

The first stage of the appeals process is known as reconsideration. Within 60 days of receiving your rejection notice, you can ask for a reconsideration of your claim. The DDS will assign a new claims examiner to check your records. If you still get a rejection, you can request a disability hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ).

If the judge also denies your appeal, you must proceed to the Appeals Council within 60 days. Finally, if none of these options work, you can appeal the rejection to a federal court.

A disability attorney can help make the appeals process go smoothly. An experienced disability lawyer will give you the right legal advice that can help you win your claim.

In Arizona, there are three Disability Adjudication and Review offices – two in Phoenix and one in Tucson. These offices can help if you have questions about the appeals process.

More Arizona Benefits

In addition to SSDI benefits, Arizona residents can apply for various state benefits that provide valuable assistance.

Apply for SSI in Arizona

Arizona residents with low incomes may qualify for SSI. In addition, Supplemental Security Income is available for low-income earners who are blind, disabled, or at least 65 years old.

The SSA will check for SSI eligibility when you apply for SSDI. Unlike some other states, Arizona doesn’t contribute to the SSI compensation. Instead, the program relies on federal funds, and recipients can receive up to $749 per month.

Arizona Medicaid

Low-income earners can access quality healthcare through Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS).

AHCCCS is the Arizona Medicaid program that subsidizes the healthcare needs of eligible low-income earners. Parents or caretakers of children below 19 and pregnant women may qualify for the program even if enrolled in Medicare. Qualified recipients receive many benefits, including COVID-19 vaccines and assistive technology.

In 2021, families of four with an income at or below $36,570 and individuals who earn $17,774 or less may qualify for Medicaid in Arizona. Arizona’s KidsCare program also provides health care services to children whose families earn $54,325 or less (family of four).

Arizona Unemployment

Residents who lose their jobs through no fault may be eligible for Arizona unemployment benefits. Eligible individuals can receive up to $240 per week until they secure new employment. If the recipient does not find employment, the benefits will expire after 26 weeks.

How Does Short-Term Disability in Arizona Work?

In Arizona, short- and long-term disability benefits are distinct programs with different eligibility criteria and durations. Here’s how they differ:

1. Eligibility: Short-term disability benefits are typically available to individuals who are unable to work due to a non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy. The eligibility requirements usually involve paying into the state’s short-term disability insurance program or having coverage through a private insurance policy. Long-term disability benefits, on the other hand, are designed for individuals with a disability that is expected to last for an extended period, often a year or longer. These benefits are typically provided through employer-sponsored or private insurance plans.

2. Duration: Short-term disability benefits in Arizona generally cover a limited period, usually up to 26 weeks (six months). The exact duration and benefit amount can vary depending on the circumstances and the specific insurance policy or program. Long-term disability benefits, as the name suggests, provide coverage for a more extended period. The duration can range from several years or until the individual reaches retirement age, depending on the terms of the policy.

3. Application Process: When applying for short-term disability benefits, you typically need to follow these steps:

   a. Notify your employer: Inform your employer about your condition and the need for short-term disability benefits as soon as possible. They will provide you with the necessary forms and guidance.

   b. Obtain medical documentation: Gather relevant medical records and documentation from your healthcare provider(s) to support your disability claim. This may include medical reports, diagnoses, treatment plans, and any other pertinent information.

   c. Complete the application: Fill out the required forms accurately and thoroughly, providing all the requested information. Make sure to include supporting medical documentation.

   d. Submit the application: Submit your completed application and supporting documents to the appropriate entity, which may be the state’s disability insurance program or your private insurance provider.

With so many Alabama residents needing disability services, it’s important to know what resources are available and how to access them. Alabama residents can apply for assistance with Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

These federal programs are available to all Americans who qualify, though state agencies administer the applications for these services. Applications go through Alabama Disability Determination Service (DDS).

Alabama has additional programs to aid disabled individuals and other Alabama state residents, such as Medicaid, unemployment insurance, and the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS).

The ADRS offers state-level disability services for Alabamians from birth to seniors. In addition, the SAIL program (State Of Alabama Independent Living Service) provides long-term disability care to seniors with physical or developmental disabilities. Alabama also offers vocational rehabilitation and children’s rehabilitation.

Facts About Alabama

Around 33% of Alabama’s population has some disability. This is one of the highest rates in the nation. Of these disabled individuals, the greatest majority suffer from a mobility-related disability or a cognition-related disability such as mental illness.

Studies show that 46% of those with a disability have obesity, and 33% smoke. These added health concerns make it essential that disability benefits are accessible to any person who needs them. Alabama spends approximately 39% of its healthcare expenditures on its disability services.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Alabama

Those who apply for Social Security disability benefits must meet a set of criteria by the Social Security Administration (SSA). These requirements are the same across the country, regardless of what state you live in, though approval is determined at the state level.

Alabama approves approximately 31% of all first-time applications for SSDI benefits. Given this relatively low approval rate, ensuring you meet all criteria before applying is worthwhile.

Qualified applicants must typically meet two main requirements to receive monthly benefits. First, they must have a good work history that has paid into the Social Security tax system. This is generally considered to be ten years of employment. However, waivers can be made for those with severe intellectual disabilities or mental retardation who cannot work in any capacity.

The second requirement is that your disability must be considered “severe.” This means that you are unable to work for at least twelve months. Your disability should be found on this list compiled by the SSA. If it is not found here, you will have difficulty winning your disability insurance case.

Those who can still work in some capacity cannot earn more than the monthly income level (currently $1,310), and they are also protected from discrimination at the workplace. Under Alabama law, an employer must make reasonable accommodations to assist the employee in completing their job.

How To Apply for SSDI in Alabama

All applications for Social Security Disability must be made with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Applications can be made online at SSA.gov, over the phone by calling 800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA field office.

Those wishing to apply at a Social Security field office should call first and schedule an appointment. There are 22 offices in the state of Alabama to help with Social Security benefits.

After DDS reviews your application, you will receive your determination. Therefore, as an applicant, you should prepare as much relevant information ahead of time.

The necessary documents can vary, but the following information is usually required:

• Personal information about you, your spouse, and any minor children, including date and place of birth, and marriage, divorce, or military service records from the Department of Veterans Affairs
• Basic employment information if you’re currently working
• Personal references (doctors, family, friends) who can verify your disability claim
• Basic medical records relating to your disability, including evidence of diagnosed medical conditions and tests
• Job and education history

How To Appeal a Denial in Alabama

Alabama is similar to other states with its low initial approval rate. As a result, most applicants will have to go through the appeals process to get their applications approved. Each step of the process must be completed within 60 days of the initial denial, and you cannot skip the steps.

Step 1: Reconsideration – An applicant’s first step is to request reconsideration. Your application will be reviewed by a new representative not involved in your initial denial to see if an error was made. Approximately 14% of claims are approved at this stage.

Step 2: Disability Hearing – If your reconsideration was also denied, you may request a disability adjudication with an administrative law judge. There are four Hearing and Appeals offices in Alabama, and your hearing will be scheduled at one of them.

This process can take more than a year, and you’ll likely be asked to bring additional documentation to support your case. Many people consult with an attorney versed in disability law at this stage. Around 56% of cases are approved at this level.

Step 3: Appeals Council – The third stage of the appeals process is to appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council. This council will review the previous decisions and request additional information if needed.

Level 4: Federal Court – If all three previous levels of appeal were unsuccessful, you would have to file a lawsuit at a federal district court in Alabama. There are three federal courts in the Northern, Southern, and Central Alabama regions.  If you have not yet retained a lawyer for legal service, you will need to for federal court.

More Alabama Benefits

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another federal insurance program for lower-income people. SSI benefits are available to those with disabilities and seniors over 65. Applicants must meet low-income requirements.

Alabama Medicaid

The income requirements for SSI are similar to Alabama Medicaid – many who qualify for one program will qualify for the other. Medicaid provides health insurance benefits to low-income Alabamians of all ages. Some individuals will have to pay a small copay for services, but these copay requirements are often waived.

Alabama Unemployment

Financial service is also available through Alabama Unemployment benefits. This program provides temporary financial help to those who can’t work or whose hours have been dramatically reduced through no fault. The program has a maximum weekly payout of $275 for up to 20 weeks.

Alabama Social Security Offices

Alabama Hearing and Appeal Offices

Alabama is in Region 4 (Atlanta), which serves Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Social Security Disability Insurance is a form of public assistance for beneficiaries who have a developmental disability, mental disability, or terminal illness that prevents them from working for at least 12 months.

The program is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) which has thousands of field offices across the United States.

Facts About Alaska

Alaska has plenty of disabled individual residents living in the Last Frontier. About one in every four adults has a disease or disability that would qualify them for Social Security disability benefits.

Mobility, cognition, independent living, hearing, vision, and self care are the biggest disability-related issues for SSDI recipients in Alaska. SSDI payments can help defray the cost of these individuals obtaining the health care and personal care they need to go about normalizing their day.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Alaska

Alaska residents wishing to qualify for SSDI payments will have to show that they are medically eligible, which includes providing proof of a disability as part of their SSDI claim. Medical records, letters from healthcare providers, hospital bills, and other forms of documentation will need to be packaged as part of their SSDI application.

Sometimes, it helps to work with an SSDI lawyer so that your initial application is approved. An estimated 54% of applications are dismissed, so working with an SSDI attorney can improve your chances of getting approved without even having to go through disability adjudication. If you do need to file an appeal, having an SSDI lawyer working with you already will certainly help.

SSDI applicants also need to show that they have paid a sufficient amount of Social Security taxes. An individual needs 40 credits to be considered sufficiently paid up on FICA taxes to collect SSDI, and half of those credits must have been earned in the past decade.

Fortunately, earning the credits is relatively easy, since $1,470 in earnings will obtain one work credit. If an applicant is good to go on both the medical and non-medical (that is, work-related) components of their SSDI application, they will likely be approved by the SSA for benefits.

You might be wondering what happens if you do not have a specific disability, but you have a variety of factors that prevent you from holding gainful employment despite reasonable accommodation in the workplace. If you can document that you have a low Residual Functional Capacity (RFC), or in other words, impairment in the area of normal work functions – issues concentrating, chronic back pain, for example – you can also get your SSDI application approved.

How To Apply for SSDI in Alaska

Despite Alaska’s massive size, there are just 3 SSA field offices in Alaska – one in Fairbanks, Anchorage, and Juneau. That means that many Alaska residents will have to use the Social Security Administration website or call 1-800-772-1213 to apply.

Residents of these three cities may also benefit from using the phone service or applying online. Sometimes, there can be a wait time at the actual SSA office.

How To Appeal a Denial in Alaska

If your SSDI application is denied, don’t give up. You can request a redetermination, which allows you to submit more evidence. If that doesn’t work, you can appear before an administrative law judge (ALJ) to discuss your case. You can schedule a virtual appointment so you don’t have to make a trek to the Disability Determination Services Alaska Office.

The ALJ will be able to reassign your SSDI claim to another disability examiner. If this does not work, you can request a hearing by the Appeals Council, who will discuss your case and possibly assign it to another ALJ.

As a final option of the appeals process, there is the US federal court system, but the likelihood of your case going there is slim. An SSDI attorney can also help you explore alternative options such as worker’s compensation or SSI.

More Alaska Benefits

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a monthly benefit payment for low-income individuals with limited financial resources – under $2,000 per person and $3,000 per couple. SSI is only available for individuals who are blind, disabled, or over the age of 65. However, if you applied for SSDI, you may be able to get SSI as well.

SSDI payments are based on your previous income during the years when you were paid the most. It may be that you already maximize your benefits and SSI won’t be available. However, if you do qualify for SSI as well, you can increase your benefits by another few hundred dollars. Additionally, it takes two years for Medicare to kick in for SSDI recipients, while Medicaid is given to SSI recipients right away. If you get SSI on top of your SSDI, you will have no gaps in your healthcare coverage.

Speaking of Medical Assistance, Alaska Medicaid is issued by the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services for low-income individuals who do not have health insurance and can’t afford their own policy. You can apply online right from the Alaska DHSS website. The DHSS can also let you know if you are available for other programs like TANF cash assistance or SNAP food stamps.

If you are unemployed through no fault of your own, you can collect Alaska Unemployment Benefits until you are back on your feet financially. Unemployment compensation pays a portion of your most recent income, so it’s always a good idea to look into other financial and social services like SNAP, Medicaid, and rent assistance.

Alaska Social Security Offices

Alaska Hearing and Appeal Offices

Alaska is in Region 10 (Seattle), which services Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.

The Anchorage Hearing Office services the cities of Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and Ketchikan.

SSDI benefits help Arkansas residents with a disability lasting longer than 12 months or that will eventually result in death. The disability must prevent an individual from retaining gainful employment. 

Disability compensation is typically used for living expenses like housing, food, transportation, and healthcare.

Facts About Arkansas

Nationally, one in four adult Americans has some type of disability. In Arkansas, this percentage is higher at 35.2%. The Land of Opportunity (as Arkansas is nicknamed) spends around $3.7 billion per year on healthcare costs.

Social Security Disability benefits can help a beneficiary Arkansas resident with independent living and healthcare, whether they have a physical disability, learning disability, or terminal illness.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Arkansas

To qualify for SSDI benefits in Arkansas, claimants must have a disability that prevents them from working. In some cases, this may not be a specific illness like cancer or Multiple Sclerosis, but it may be a conglomeration of factors creating a low Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) for performing basic universal tasks required for employment.

Eligibility is also based on whether the applicant has earned enough Social Security credits through years of employment. The applicant must have paid enough Social Security or FICA taxes, which are deducted from each paycheck. It takes $1,470 in earnings to obtain one work credit, and applicants need 20 credits in the past decade, and 40 overall to qualify for SSDI.

How To Apply for SSDI in Arkansas

You can apply for SSDI over the phone by calling 800-772-1213 or by filling out an application on https://www.ssa.gov. There are also 17 SSA field offices throughout Arkansas where you can apply in person.

Keep in mind that SSDI is not the same as worker’s compensation, which can offer temporary disability or total disability if you are injured on the job. You don’t need to be injured on the job to file a disability claim. You just need to have a work history that shows you have paid a sufficient amount of Social Security taxes.

However, if your long-term disability was caused by your employment, you might want to seek some legal advice from a law firm specializing in SSDI claims, because they can help you assess which benefits would give you a higher monthly payment.

SSDI is also different from the disability service offered to disabled veterans after their military service, which is administered through the Department of Veterans Affairs (also known as the VA). Workers’ comp and VA benefits are handled through separate agencies, as are support services like Medicaid and SNAP benefits.

How To Appeal a Denial in Arkansas

Around 68% of SSDI applications in Arkansas are denied. This number may seem discouragingly high, but often it’s because the applicant did not include enough supporting documentation with their application.

Working with a disability attorney can go a long way toward claim approval. A lawyer can assist you in collecting documentation and properly build your case for the disability examiner.

If your application needs to go through disability adjudication, the first step you can take is to request a reconsideration by the Disability Determination Services. This allows you to provide more documentation to support your claim.

You can request a hearing in front of an ALJ or administrative law judge if you remain dissatisfied with the decision. It is recommended to have a disability lawyer for this process, especially if your appeal goes in front of the Appeals Council.

If all else fails, you can take your case to a federal district court, though this form of appeal is rather rare. If your case is ultimately denied, you can look at other options like food stamps, SSI benefits, or worker’s compensation.

More Arkansas Benefits

Unfortunately, not every disabled individual qualifies for SSDI benefits. Other benefits are available for eligible Arkansas benefits with limited financial resources, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI benefits are for low-income residents who are disabled, legally blind, or over 65 years old.

To qualify for SSI, individuals cannot have more than $2,000 ($3,000 for couples) in assets at their disposal. The SSA will check your application and see if you can collect SSI on top of your SSDI if your income level is under the threshold.

For low-income residents who need health insurance, Arkansas Medicaid provides much-needed assistance. To qualify, residents must be pregnant, responsible for a dependent 17 and younger, or disabled.

Expanded Arkansas Medicaid benefits (ACA) are available for low-income families as long as their income is below the threshold for that family size – for example, around $44,000 for a family of five.

If you qualify for SSDI benefits, you will also have Medicare coverage after two years. This is why it can help to get approved for SSI as well, because SSI beneficiaries get Medicaid right away, which can provide gap coverage while you wait.

The Arkansas Division of Workforce Services is responsible for managing Arkansas Unemployment Benefits, which helps Arkansas residents who are out of work through no fault of their own. Recipients must be actively looking for work and prove each week that they are applying for jobs.

Arkansas Social Security Offices

Arkansas Hearing and Appeal Offices

Arkansas is in Region 6 (Dallas), which services Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

If you’re a Florida resident and have a disability that keeps you from working, you may be eligible for disability benefits under the SSA federal programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Though both Social Security disability programs are administered at the federal government level, Florida’s Division of Disability Determinations is responsible for confirming medical eligibility for Florida citizens who apply for either benefit program.

This division also oversees periodic continuing disability reviews of all Social Security Administration disability beneficiaries to ensure that each person receiving Social Security disability benefits continues to meet all medical eligibility criteria for compensation.

Florida and Documented Disabilities

Nearly 5 million Florida adult residents report having documented disabilities of some kind, which represents roughly 28% of the state population. These adults also are more likely to be obese, to smoke, and to have heart disease and/or diabetes.

Together, these documented disabilities cost the state of Florida upwards of $53 billion in health care costs each year, representing 35 percent of Florida’s overall health care spending. This equates to roughly $15,000 in expenses each year for each disabled Florida resident.

How To Qualify for SSDI in Florida

Since SSDI is a federal program, all applicants must meet federal requirements for eligibility.

First, an applicant must meet non-medical eligibility criteria, which entails the person having worked a sufficient time to accrue an appropriate level of work credits through the SSA.

An applicant typically must have earned 40 credits to be SSDI eligible, 20 of which were earned during the most recent 10 years. You must also show a documented disabling condition that meets the SSA’s strict definition of total disability.

The SSA generally awards compensation benefits to those whose medical conditions prohibit them from working for at least one year, or whose conditions are terminal.

How To Apply for SSDI in Florida

In Florida, you may apply for Social Security benefits at any of the 54 local SSA field offices, or online at www.ssa.gov. Your application will then be forwarded to the Division of Disability Determinations for a decision regarding whether your disability meets the SSA’s strict definition. 

Your claim will likely be reviewed by a claims examiner and medical consultant working in partnership. If you are determined medically eligible, the claim then will be returned to the SSA to make a decision regarding your non-medical eligibility.

How To Appeal a Denial in Florida

Unfortunately, it’s common for initial claims to be denied in Florida. Though approval rates have risen in Florida over the last few years, they still only meet the national approval rate of roughly 30%.

If you disagree with the decision regarding your disability claim, you have the right to appeal. Many applicants choose to engage with a qualified disability attorney or disability advocate who can help guide them through the remaining stages of the process.

The first stage of the appeals process is to request reconsideration. In this phase, your disability claim will be reviewed by an examiner who did not participate in your original review. You may also submit any new evidence or documentation if you have it.

At this point, if your disability claim continues to be denied, you may request a disability hearing with an administrative law judge. 56% of appeals are won at this stage, which isn’t too surprising, considering it is the first chance a reviewer has to meet you and hear the full story of how your disability affects your life.

If you still receive an unfavorable disability determination after your disability hearing, your final option is to submit a request for appeal to the Social Security Appeals Council. The council will change the decision only if they believe your claim was adjudicated inappropriately.

More Florida Benefits

In addition to its SSDI benefits program, Florida administers other programs to help its most vulnerable residents, including those outlined below.

SSI

To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in Florida, applicants must show proof of limited income and be either disabled, blind, or over 65 years of age.

Other SSI requirements include:

• Limited income or resources
• U.S. citizenship or legally authorized to live and work in the United States;
• Inability to work due to age or disability

Individual Florida residents can receive up to $771 as a monthly benefit through the SSI program. Additionally, Florida has chosen to increase supplemental disability payments to individuals living in community care programs or Medicaid facilities.

Florida Medicaid

Florida Medicaid is a state and federal partnership that provides health care coverage for low-income Florida residents.

Qualified applicants typically meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Florida resident
• U.S. citizen or legally authorized to live and work in the United States
• Income classified as low or very low

In addition, an applicant must show that one of the following is the case:

• The person is pregnant
• The person is responsible for a child 18 years old or younger
• The person is blind
• The person has a disability or lives with someone who has a disability
• The person is 65 years old or older

Medicaid services in the state of Florida are administered through the state’s Agency for Health Care Administration. Florida residents may apply online at www.myflorida.com/accessflorida/.

Florida Unemployment

Unemployment insurance benefits in Florida are known throughout the state as reemployment assistance benefits. The program provides temporary financial assistance for Florida residents who have lost employment through no fault of their own.

To be eligible for Florida unemployment benefits, a Florida employee must have worked in Florida over the past 12 months and have earned a minimum amount in wages, as determined by Florida law.

Those who receive unemployment compensation must show that they are able to work and available for suitable work during each week they receive unemployment assistance. Interested applicants may submit an initial claim through CONNECT, Florida’s Reemployment Assistance System.

Florida Social Security Offices

Florida Hearing and Appeal Offices

Florida is in Region 4 (Atlanta), which services Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.