SSDI Benefits in Colorado

The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program is a federal initiative designed to provide financial support to people who can't work due to long-term or life-threatening disabilities. The SSDI program operates in every state, including Colorado, to provide financial stability for those who find themselves unable to work due to their health.

How the SSDI Program Works in Colorado

SSDI works based on your previous contributions to the Social Security fund through your taxes. When you're employed, part of the taxes you pay goes toward this fund, earning you "work credits." In case of a debilitating health condition preventing you from working, these work credits are used to establish your eligibility for SSDI benefits.

Who Is Eligible for SSDI in Colorado?

The key factors determining your eligibility for SSDI in Colorado are work credits and your medical condition. The SSDI program works like insurance. You must have earned a sufficient number of work credits throughout your working life.

You must also have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration's (SSA) definition of disability. The SSA defines a disability as a severe health issue expected to last at least a year or result in death, impacting your ability to work significantly.

How to Apply for SSDI in Colorado

To apply for SSDI benefits in Colorado, you can submit an application online, call the SSA, or visit your local Social Security office. Your application should include extensive medical documentation and detailed work history to support your claim. By providing accurate and complete information, you can help streamline the review process and increase your chances of success.

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 Colorado, you will need to have the following information:

Personal Information: Your name, Social Security number, and proof of age.

Medical Evidence: Detailed medical records showing your disability, including information from doctors, hospitals, or clinics where you've been treated. This should also include lab and test results related to your condition.

Work History: Detailed information about where you've worked in the past 15 years, the kind of work you did, and the skills required for your jobs.

Income: Your earnings from work, as well as any other sources of income such as pensions, unemployment benefits, or money from family.

Additional Information: Depending on your situation, you might also need to provide information about your spouse and children, military service, or any workers' compensation benefits you've received.

Appealing a Denial

If your SSDI application gets denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. You must request an appeal in writing within 60 days of receiving the denial notice.

The appeal process includes four stages:

1. Reconsideration
2. Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge
3. Review by the Appeals Council
4. Federal Court Review

To begin the appeal process, log in to your mySocialSecurity account and select Request Reconsideration.

Consider hiring a disability attorney if you're planning to apply for SSDI or appeal a denial. Disability attorneys are knowledgeable about SSDI laws and can help you navigate the process more effectively. Their assistance can range from preparing your application to representing you during appeal hearings, improving your chances of being awarded benefits.

SSI Benefits in Colorado

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another federal program available to Colorado residents who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled, and have limited income or resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI isn't based on your work history but rather on financial need.

SSI provides cash assistance to help recipients meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter. The amount of SSI benefit varies based on your income, living arrangements, and other factors. If you qualify for SSI, you automatically qualify for the Aid to the Needy Disabled-Colorado Supplement (AND-CS) program, which provides additional financial support to Colorado's SSI recipients.

To apply for SSI benefits in Colorado, you can apply online via the Colorado PEAK website. You can also visit a local Social Security office or call the Social Security Administration. Be sure to provide accurate information when applying to avoid delays or a denial of benefits. When in doubt, consider seeking advice from a disability attorney to maximize your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve.

Colorado - Social Security Disability Office Locations