SSDI Benefits in New Hampshire

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that offers financial support to residents of New Hampshire who can't work because of a disability. It's a way to help those who have worked in the past but now find themselves unable to continue due to a severe medical condition.

About the Social Security Administration (SSA)

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is the federal agency responsible for managing SSDI. They handle receiving and processing applications, determining who qualifies for benefits, calculating the amount of benefits, and making sure the payments get to eligible individuals. The SSA also reviews current beneficiaries' cases to confirm that they remain qualified for benefits.

How to Qualify for SSDI

Eligibility for SSDI in New Hampshire depends on two main factors: the nature of your disability and your work history. You must have a medical condition that fits the SSA's definition of disability, and you must have earned enough work credits (which we'll talk about next).

How Does the SSA Define Disability?

The SSA has strict guidelines for what constitutes a disability. It must be a condition that severely inhibits your ability to do basic work-related activities, such as walking or remembering. The disability must be expected to last at least a year or end in death, and it can't be a partial or short-term condition.

What Is a Consultative Examination?

A Consultative Examination (CE) might be requested by the SSA if more medical information is needed to assess your disability. The medical exam is performed by a healthcare professional who has been approved by the SSA. The CE helps provide additional details about your medical condition and how it affects your ability to work.

What Are Work Credits?

Work credits are a measure of how much you've worked and contributed to Social Security over the years. You can earn up to four credits per year. The number of credits you need to qualify for SSDI depends on your age when you become disabled.

How to Apply for SSDI in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, you can apply for SSDI online, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office.

If you prefer to speak to someone, you can call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) between 8:00 am and 7:00 pm, Monday through Friday. For face-to-face assistance, you can visit a nearby Social Security office during regular business hours.

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.

When applying for SSDI, you'll need to share personal information like your Social Security number, medical details including doctor contacts, medication lists, detailed work history, and your most recent W-2.

Appeal Process

If your SSDI claim is denied in New Hampshire, you have the right to appeal the decision. The process consists of different levels, including reconsideration, a hearing by an administrative law judge, and further reviews. It can be complex, but a disability advocate may be able to assist you.

Disability advocates can assist you throughout the SSDI appeal process. They understand the system, know the laws, and can help you gather the necessary evidence. Advocates can represent you, prepare documents, and provide advice on how best to present your case. Many people find their assistance helpful in pursuing SSDI benefits.

Supplemental Security Income in New Hampshire

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program managed by the SSA. It provides financial assistance to low-income New Hampshire residents who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 and older. The program helps people meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which relies on an individual's work credits, SSI is based on financial need. An applicant's income, including wages, pensions, and other Social Security benefits, must be below certain limits to qualify.

Eligible applicants must 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

In New Hampshire, applying for SSI can be done online, over the phone, or in person at a local SSA office. You will be asked to provide detailed information about your income, resources, living arrangements, and medical conditions.

SSI beneficiaries are automatically eligible for other programs like Medicaid and SNAP food stamps. These additional programs provide a comprehensive support system for New Hampshire residents in need.

New Hampshire - Social Security Disability Office Locations