SSDI Benefits in Connecticut

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to people who cannot work due to long-term or life-threatening disabilities. It's designed to act as a buffer, providing much-needed support to disabled Connecticut residents who are unable to work.

How the SSDI Program Works in Connecticut

The SSDI program is funded in part by your employment wages and the corresponding contributions that were deducted for the Social Security fund. As you work and pay taxes, you accrue "work credits." If an unfortunate health condition arises that hinders your ability to work, these work credits are used to evaluate your eligibility for SSDI benefits.

Who Is Eligible for SSDI in Connecticut?

Your eligibility for SSDI in Connecticut is determined by two critical factors: your work credits and your health condition. You must have accrued an adequate number of work credits during your employment history.

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

How to Apply for SSDI in Connecticut

In Connecticut, you can apply for SSDI benefits either online, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will be asked to provide medical documentation to corroborate your claim. Providing detailed and accurate information can expedite the review process and improve your chances of a favorable decision.

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 Connecticut, you'll need to compile and submit several key pieces of information. First, provide your personal information, which includes your name, Social Security number, and birth certificate.

Perhaps the most important documentation you'll need is detailed medical evidence. This consists of comprehensive medical records demonstrating your disability, encompassing data from doctors, hospitals, or clinics where you've received treatment, as well as any laboratory and test results related to your condition.

You will also be asked to provide a detailed account of your work history for the past 15 years. This should highlight where you've worked, the nature of your work, and the skills necessary for your past jobs. Your income information is also essential, detailing your earnings from work along with any additional sources of income, such as pensions, unemployment benefits, or financial assistance from a family member.

Depending on your circumstances, you may also need to provide information about your spouse and children, your military service history, and any workers' compensation benefits you've received.

Appealing a Denial

If your SSDI application is denied, you are encouraged to appeal the decision. The appeal must be submitted in writing within 60 days from when you received the denial notice.

The appeal process consists of four levels. If you disagree with a decision during the appeals process, you can continue to appeal until the final step, which is a federal court review.

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.

Hiring a disability lawyer can prove beneficial when applying for SSDI or especially during an appeal. An experienced attorney understands SSDI regulations and can guide you effectively throughout the process. Disability lawyers can assist in compiling a robust application, gathering evidence, and representing you during appeal hearings.

SSI Benefits in Connecticut

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another federal program aimed at offering financial assistance to individuals who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled and have limited income or resources. Unlike SSDI, eligibility for SSI doesn't rely on your work history but rather on your financial need.

SSI benefits are meant to help beneficiaries cover basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. The benefit amount can differ based on your other income, living arrangements, and additional factors.

In Connecticut, those eligible for SSI also qualify for additional financial assistance through the CT State Supplement to the Aged, Blind or Disabled program.

To apply for SSI in Connecticut, you can do so online or by visiting a local Social Security office. Remember, ensuring accurate and complete information on your application can improve your chances of approval.

The quickest way to get SSI benefits is to apply online. Head over to www.connect.ct.gov and click on the "Apply Now" button. There's also a helpful "Am I Eligible?" feature on this site that can help you determine if you qualify for State Supplement cash benefits.

You can also choose to apply in person. To do this, just visit any Connecticut DSS Service Center and complete the application.

Connecticut - Social Security Disability Office Locations