SSDI Benefits in Maine

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that helps Maine residents who can't work due to a disability. It's a form of insurance. When you work and pay taxes, some of that money goes into Social Security. If you become disabled and can't work, SSDI may pay you benefits every month.

The key point about SSDI is that it's meant for long-term disabilities. If your disability will get better in less than a year, SSDI won't cover you.

To get SSDI benefits, you need to apply and prove to the Social Security Administration (SSA) that you meet their requirements.

What Does the SSA Do?

The SSA is the government group that manages SSDI, as well as the Social Security retirement program and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. SSA staff can individuals understand these programs and how to apply. The SSA also determines who is eligible for benefits.

How to Qualify for SSDI

In Maine, to get SSDI, you need to meet two general requirements. First, you must have earned enough work credits. Second, you must have a medical condition that fits the SSA's definition of disability.

Definition of Disability

The SSA has a specific definition of disability. You must be unable to perform any substantial work because of a medical condition. The disability must be something that could last for at least 12 months or could result in death. So, if you're expected to get better in less than a year, you're not disabled according to the SSA.

Work Credits

Work credits are the SSA's way of determining if you've worked enough to qualify for Social Security benefits. During your years of employment, part of your paycheck was deposited into the Social Security trust fund.

The number of work credits you need depends on your age when you become disabled. But in general, you need 40 credits.

How to Apply for SSDI in Maine

Applying for SSDI in Maine can be done online or at your local Social Security office. It involves filling out an application form and providing detailed information about your work history, medical condition, and treatments.

The online application is straightforward, allowing you to fill in the information at your own pace. If you prefer, you can also call the SSA toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 to set up an appointment to apply over the phone or in person at a local Social Security 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 Social Security office.

Information Needed to Apply for SSDI in Maine

When applying for SSDI in Maine, it's necessary to have some specific information on hand. This includes:

• Your Social Security number.
• Your birth or baptismal certificate.
• Names, addresses, and phone numbers of the doctors, caseworkers, hospitals, and clinics that took care of you.
• Names and dosage of the medications you take.
• Medical records from your doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics, and caseworkers.
• Laboratory and test results.
• A summary of where you worked and the kind of work you did.
• A copy of your most recent W-2 form or federal tax return.

Having well-organized documentation can help speed up the application process.

How to Appeal a Denial

If your application for SSDI is denied in Maine, you should file an appeal.

The appeals process consists of several levels of appeal: reconsideration, hearing by an administrative law judge, review by the Appeals Council, and federal court review.

The first step, reconsideration, involves a complete review of your claim by someone who did not take part in the first decision. It's a good idea to provide any new evidence that can support your case at this stage.

If you're denied again, you can ask for a hearing, then an Appeals Council review, and finally, take your case to federal court if necessary.

Do You Need a Disability Attorney?

While it's not required to have a lawyer to apply for SSDI in Maine, it can be beneficial. A disability lawyer understands the complex process and knows how to present your case in the best light. They can guide you through the application process, help gather medical evidence, prepare you for any hearings, and represent you in the appeals process if your initial application is denied.

Many disability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. However, the decision to hire a lawyer should be based on your comfort with the process and your financial situation.

Disability attorneys receive a portion of your back pay if your application is approved &mdash either 25% of your first payment, or $7,200, whichever is less.

SSI Program in Maine

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to older adults, blind individuals, and people with disabilities that prevent them from engaging in substantial gainful activity.

SSI is managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Unlike SSDI, which is based on a person's work history and the accumulation of work credits, SSI supports low-income individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled.

To qualify for SSI in Maine, you need to meet specific income and resource limits. The income limit takes into account your earnings, pensions, and other income such as food and shelter. Your disability should be severe enough to last at least one year (or result in death).

Like SSDI, applying for SSI in Maine can be done online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. Be prepared to submit your medical records, work history, and detailed financial records.

Apply for SSI Benefits Online: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/start.html

Apply By Phone: Call 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment to file your SSI application.

Note: By qualifying for SSI in Maine, you automatically become eligible for other essential benefits, such as Medicaid, which can help cover medical costs, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which assists with food expenses. These benefits can help improve the quality of life for many Maine residents.

Maine - Social Security Disability Office Locations