SSDI Benefits in Nevada

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a government program that gives financial help to Nevada residents who can't work because of a serious health problem. When you work, you pay into this system through your taxes, and if you become unable to work due to disability, you can receive monthly payments from SSDI to help cover living expenses.

About the Social Security Administration (SSA)

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is responsible for managing the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, including receiving and processing applications. They determine eligibility, calculate benefit amounts, and distribute payments to qualified individuals.

The SSA also handles appeals, and conducts regular reviews to ensure that current beneficiaries continue to meet eligibility requirements.

How to Qualify for SSDI

To qualify for SSDI in Nevada, you must meet specific requirements.

You need to have a disability that keeps you from working, and this condition must be expected to last at least a year or lead to death. Additionally, you must have earned enough work credits, which you earn by working and paying taxes.

How Does the SSA Define Disability?

The SSA has a strict definition of disability. Your medical condition must be severe enough that it prevents you from working and interferes with daily activities. It also has to last for at least one year or be expected to result in death. The SSA doesn't offer benefits for short-term disabilities.

What Are Work Credits?

Work credits are a key part of the SSDI program. You earn these credits through working and paying Social Security taxes. You can earn up to four credits each year. Generally, you need 40 work credits to qualify for SSDI. If you don't have enough, you might not be able to get SSDI benefits.

How to Apply for SSDI in Nevada

Applying for SSDI in Nevada can be done in three ways: online, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. The online application lets you fill out the forms at any time, and you can take breaks and come back as needed.

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.

Information Needed to Apply for SSDI in Nevada

When you apply for SSDI, you'll need to provide several types of information:

• Personal Information: Have your Social Security number and birth date ready, along with identification documents.
• Medical Information: Be prepared to share details about your disability, including doctor and hospital names, medication lists, and any medical tests you've had.
• Work History: You'll have to provide an account of your work over the past 15 years. This includes job titles, duties, and dates of employment.
• Income Information: The SSA will ask for your most recent W-2 form or tax return if you are self-employed.

Appeal Process

If your initial SSDI claim in Nevada is denied, you have the right to appeal. The appeal process is a way to have the decision reviewed by someone who didn't take part in the original decision.

The appeal process starts with a reconsideration, where your case is reviewed again with any new information you provide. If you still disagree with the decision, you can ask for a hearing with an administrative law judge. If you're still unhappy after the hearing, the next step is to ask for a review by the Appeals Council, and finally, you can take your case to federal court.

You don't have to go through this process alone. Many people hire a disability lawyer or advocate to help them. They know the system well and can guide you, gather evidence, and speak for you during the process.

What Is a Disability Advocate?

A disability advocate is a certified professional who helps people apply for disability benefits, like SSDI. Disability advocates don't have to be attorneys, but they still know the rules and processes inside and out.

Advocates can help you fill out forms, gather the right medical evidence, and help you with the appeal process if your application is denied. Advocates work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your claim.

If you feel overwhelmed by the SSDI process or want someone to help make sure everything goes smoothly, a disability advocate can be a great choice for you.

Supplemental Security Income in Nevada

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides financial assistance to low-income Nevada residents who have a disability, are blind, or are aged 65 and above.

Like SSDI, the program is administered by the Social Security Administration. However, SSI is based on financial need instead of work credits.

To qualify for SSI in Nevada, you must meet specific income and resource limitations. Your disability must also be severe enough to last at least a year or result in death.

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

You can apply for SSI online, by phone, or by email. The application requires detailed information about your medical condition, income, assets, and living arrangements.

SSI and SSDI are both programs designed to support people with disabilities, but they serve different purposes. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, while SSI is for those who may not have worked enough or at all but still have a financial need. It's possible to qualify for both programs if you meet the criteria for each.

Nevada - Social Security Disability Office Locations