SSDI Benefits in Alabama

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program designed to provide income to individuals unable to work due to a disability. It covers disabilities expected to last at least a year or result in death, offering financial relief to those who qualify.

How the SSDI Program Works in Alabama

The SSDI program operates through payroll taxes. Individuals earn work credits throughout their employment history, contributing to the Social Security fund. Once a disability occurs preventing continued work, these individuals can tap into SSDI benefits, provided they have sufficient work credits.

Who Is Eligible for SSDI?

To be eligible for SSDI in Alabama, residents must have accumulated a sufficient number of work credits and have a medical condition that meets Social Security's definition of disability. Qualified SSDI recipients must have a severe disability that prevents them from working.

How to Apply for SSDI in Alabama

In Alabama, you can apply for SSDI benefits online, via phone, or at a local Social Security office. The application requires thorough medical documentation and work history. Once submitted, Alabama's Disability Determination Services will evaluate the application.

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.

Information needed to apply

To apply for SSDI in Alabama, you will need to provide detailed information in the following areas:

• Personal Information: Full name, Social Security number, birth certificate, contact details, etc.
• Medical Information: Detailed information about your medical condition, including doctor's reports, medical test results, and a full list of healthcare providers (names, addresses, phone numbers, patient ID numbers, and dates of treatment).
• Work History: Detailed information about your work history for the last 15 years before you became unable to work due to your disability. This includes job titles, type of business, dates of employment, and a description of work-related tasks.
• Financial Information: Proof of income and resources, such as W-2 forms, self-employment tax returns, and information about any other disability claims you've filed (like workers' compensation or similar benefits).

Remember that providing accurate and detailed information will strengthen your application and speed up the process. It's recommended to seek legal advice or consultation from a disability lawyer to ensure the successful submission of your application.

How to Appeal a Denial

Denials can be appealed within 60 days. The appeal process involves four stages: Reconsideration, Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge, Review by Appeals Council, and Federal Court Review. Each stage requires specific documentation and processes.

You can begin the process by logging in to your mySocialSecurity account and clicking on Request Reconsideration.

Should you hire a disability lawyer?

Hiring a disability lawyer can increase your chances of approval, as they understand the complexities of SSDI laws and can assist with gathering evidence, filling out paperwork, and representation at hearings. If your application for SSDI has been denied, you may want to seek out a free consultation with an Alabama disability attorney.

SSI Benefits in Alabama

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is a federal program that provides financial support to elderly, blind, and disabled individuals with limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI isn't based on work history, but on financial need.

SSI benefits are calculated based on an individual's countable income, which includes both money earned from work and other sources like SSDI, as well as free food or shelter. However, not all income and resources are counted for SSI, and the regulations are complex.

SSI provides benefits to cover basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter. In many cases, people who get SSI will also qualify for other benefits, like Medicaid or food assistance.

Keep in mind, every state, including Alabama, may supplement SSI benefits with additional payments. It's important to understand both federal and state guidelines when applying for these benefits.

Alabama - Social Security Disability Office Locations