SSDI Benefits in Georgia

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to Georgia residents who can't work due to a disability. The SSDI program is paid for by the workers and employers through Social Security payroll taxes.

Social Security Administration (SSA)

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is the government agency that administers social programs covering SSDI, SSI, retirement, and survivors' benefits. It collects Social Security taxes, provides benefits to qualified individuals, and makes rules for these programs. The SSA helps support millions of Americans, ensuring they have financial support when they are older or if they become disabled.

The SSA makes the rules, decides who gets the benefits, and sends out the payments.

SSA's Definition of Disability

The SSA has a specific way of deciding who is "disabled." According to their guidelines, a person is disabled if the following facts are true:

• The person can't do the work they did before becoming disabled.
• The person can't adjust to other work because of their medical condition.
• The disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or result in death.

What Are Work Credits?

Work credits are how the SSA keeps track of whether you've worked enough to qualify for SSDI. You earn these credits when you work and pay Social Security taxes. Full time workers can typically earn up to four credits per year.

SSDI Eligibility in Georgia

To be eligible for SSDI in Georgia, you need to meet certain criteria. First, you must have earned sufficient work credits while you were employed over the years. These credits are based on your annual wages or self-employment income, and you can earn up to four credits per year.

The second requirement is related to your health condition. The Social Security Administration (SSA) must classify your condition as a 'disability.' According to the SSA, a disability is a severe condition that lasts at least 12 months or results in death and prevents you from doing substantial gainful work. Temporary or partial disabilities don't count for SSDI.

You'll need to provide medical evidence showing your condition's severity and how it impacts your ability to work. Keep in mind that each case is different, and the SSA will consider your unique circumstances when reviewing your application.

Applying for SSDI in Georgia

When applying for SSDI in Georgia, be prepared to provide extensive, detailed information about your health and employment history. This includes your personal details, work history, income, and medical records that prove you have a disability.

You can apply online, by phone, or at an SSA office.

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.

To apply in person, visit your local SSA office. Be sure to bring your ID, proof of address, and all necessary documentation with you.

Was Your SSDI Application Denied?

If the SSA denies your SSDI claim, you can file an appeal. There are four stages of the appeal process: reconsideration, hearing by a judge, review by the Appeals Council, and review by the federal courts.

A disability lawyer can be a big help during this time. An experienced attorney knows the system well and can guide you through all aspects of the appeal process. Having a lawyer can increase your chances of getting benefits, especially if you need to prove that you are unable to work.

What About Supplemental Security Income?

Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is another program that helps people who are disabled, old, or blind. Unlike SSDI, SSI isn't based on your work history. It's meant for people who have very little money and few things of value. SSI provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

SSI provides financial assistance to individuals who are aged (65 or older), blind, or disabled, and who have limited income and resources. You can apply for SSI the same way as SSDI: online, by phone, or at an SSA office.

For adults to be considered disabled for SSI purposes, they must have a long-term physical or mental condition that prevents them from working. For children under 18 to be considered disabled, they must have long-term physical or mental conditions that seriously limit their activities.

In Georgia, if you qualify for SSI, you also automatically qualify for other benefits like SNAP and Medicaid. These additional benefits help to ensure that low-income households can access food assistance and healthcare services.

Georgia - Social Security Disability Office Locations