SSDI Benefits in Nebraska

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides monthly payments to people who can't work due to a disability. Managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA), the program helps Nebraska residents who have paid into the Social Security system but are now unable to work.

The SSA handles the SSDI applications, determines eligibility, and manages the monthly payments. The SSA works with the Nebraska Disability Determination Services (DDS) to evaluate your medical information and decide if you meet the standards for disability benefits. The SSA also manages appeals if you disagree with a decision.

How to Qualify for SSDI

If you live in Nebraska and are grappling with a severe medical condition, you might qualify for SSDI. Eligibility depends on two key factors - your medical condition and your work history.

Your medical condition should be severe enough that it is expected to last at least a year or result in death. But having a severe medical condition is not the only requirement. Your past work history and contributions to the Social Security system through taxes are equally important.

You need to have a certain amount of work credits, which are earned through your payroll taxes over the years. Work credits reflect how much and how long you've worked and contributed to Social Security.

You can earn up to four work credits per year. Typically, you need to have 40 credits to qualify for SSDI, although the requirement varies for younger workers.

How Does the SSA Define Disability?

The SSA defines a disability as a severe physical or mental condition that impedes your ability to do basic work activities for at least 12 months. The SSA requires substantial medical evidence to support your claim of disability.

How to Apply for SSDI in Nebraska

You can apply for SSDI online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. The fastest and easiest way to apply is online. When you apply, be ready to provide information about yourself, your medical condition, and your work history.

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 for SSDI in Nebraska

When applying for SSDI, you'll need to provide:

• Personal information like your Social Security number and birth date.
• Details about your medical condition, doctors, hospitals, medications, and tests.
• A detailed account of your work over the past 15 years.
• Your most recent W-2 or tax return if self-employed.

Consultative Examination

Sometimes, the Nebraska DDS might need to know more about your condition. If so, you might be asked to participate in a Consultative Examination (CE).

A CE is a medical check-up done by a doctor hired by the SSA. The doctor performs the exam and sends a report to the DDS. This report talks about your medical history, symptoms, what they found in the exam, and their determination about your ability to work.

Appeals

If your initial SSDI claim in Nebraska is denied, you have the option to appeal the decision. Be sure to submit your appeal within 60 days of your denial notice.

The appeal process has four levels, including reconsideration, judicial hearing, Appeals Council review, and federal court review. Each stage has its unique requirements and can become increasingly complex.

Should You Hire a Lawyer?

The decision to hire a disability lawyer should depend on the complexity of your case and your financial situation. Consulting with a lawyer or advocate before an appeal might be a wise step. They can provide insight into your case and help you decide the best way to proceed with your appeal.

Supplemental Security Income in Nebraska

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another program run by the SSA. Unlike SSDI, SSI is based on financial need, not work history.

To qualify for SSI in Nebraska, you must meet the disability criteria and have limited income and resources.

Eligible guidelines require applicants to belong to one of the following groups:

• Adults aged 65 and above
• People who are blind
• People who are unable to work because of a disability

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

Apply By Phone: Call 1-800-772-1213

SSI and SSDI are different programs. SSDI is based on work credits and disability, while SSI is based on financial need. If you're disabled but don't have enough work credits for SSDI, you may still qualify for SSI.

Nebraska - Social Security Disability Office Locations