SSDI Benefits in Illinois

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program for Illinois residents who are unable to work because of a disability.

The program is run like an insurance policy. While you're working over the years, you pay a little bit of your paycheck into the program through payroll taxes. If you become disabled and can't work, SSDI will pay you monthly benefits.

It's important to remember that SSDI only helps people with long-term disabilities. If you're expected to recover in less than a year, SSDI won't cover you.

SSDI doesn't automatically start if you become disabled. You have to apply for it and show the Social Security Administration (SSA) that you meet the requirements.

What Is the SSA?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is the government agency that runs SSDI and other social programs, such as the Social Security retirement program and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.

The SSA also helps people understand and navigate these programs. They offer a lot of information and assistance to help people apply for benefits. They also have people who review applications and decide who qualifies for these benefits.

Who Is Eligible for SSDI?

In Illinois, you are eligible for SSDI if you've earned enough work credits and if you have a medical condition that meets the SSA's definition of disability.

Definition of Disability

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a specific definition of disability that determines whether or not a person is eligible for disability benefits.

According to the SSA:

• A person must be unable to do any substantial gainful activity because of a medically-determinable physical or mental impairment.
• The impairment must be expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.

Understanding Work Credits

Work credits are used by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to determine whether you have worked enough to qualify for Social Security benefits.

You earn work credits when you pay Social Security taxes on your income, which goes into the Social Security trust fund. The amount of income you need to earn to gain a work credit changes from year to year. You can earn up to a maximum of four credits per year.

For SSDI, the number of work credits you need to be eligible depends on your age when you become disabled. Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years ending with the year you become disabled. However, younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.

How to Apply for SSDI in Illinois

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Illinois is a straightforward process. You can apply online, by phone, or in person.

Apply for SSDI Benefits Online: https://secure.ssa.gov/iClaim/dib

Apply By Phone: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) between 8:00 am - 7:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

The easiest way to start is by going online to SSA.gov. If you prefer, you can visit a local Social Security office. Illinois has many SSA offices around the state.

Information Needed to Apply for SSDI in Illinois

Be prepared to provide your personal details and documentation. You'll need proof of your identification, Social Security number, address, and age.

You must also submit detailed medical records showing your disability. This includes information from all doctors, hospitals, or clinics where you've been treated. Lab and test results related to your condition are also very important.

The SSA will also want to know about your work history for the past 15 years. Where have you worked? What kind of jobs did you do? What skills were needed for those jobs? You'll be asked to share details about your income, including work earnings and any other sources of income.

Appeal Process

When applying for SSDI in Illinois, your application might get denied. Fortunately, you have the right to appeal this decision. The appeal process has four stages to ensure your case is treated fairly.

The first step is Reconsideration. This is a complete review of your claim by someone who wasn't involved in the first decision. If you still don't agree with the decision, you can ask for a hearing by an Administrative Law Judge. This judge didn't have any part in the first decision or the reconsideration.

If you're not happy with the hearing decision, you can ask for a review by Social Security's Appeals Council. And if the Appeals Council also denies your claim, your final option is to file a lawsuit in a federal district court.

Do You Need a Disability Lawyer?

Consulting with a disability advocate or lawyer can be a smart move when you're applying for SSDI.

Lawyers who specialize in disability law know all about SSDI rules. They can help you fill out your application properly. If your application is denied, they can guide you through the appeal process.

You aren't required to hire a lawyer, but having one on your side can make things less stressful and potentially increase your chances of winning your claim.

SSI Program in Illinois

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program helps Illinois residents in need. Eligible groups include people who are 65 or older, who are blind, and who have a disability that limits their ability to work or participate in daily activities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) runs this federal program.

Applying for SSI in Illinois can be done online through the SSA's website or at a local Social Security office.

Being eligible for the SSI program in Illinois opens the door to additional benefits. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid and SNAP, which can help cover medical bills and pay for groceries.

Illinois - Social Security Disability Office Locations