SSDI Benefits in South Carolina

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) offers financial support to South Carolina residents who can't work due to a severe disability. It's a federal benefit that uses the taxes you paid while working to provide monthly payments if you meet certain medical and work history requirements.

How Does SSDI Work?

The SSDI program operates by evaluating an applicant's disability and work history. If you have a medical condition that fits the Social Security Administration's (SSA) definition of disability and have worked long enough to earn the necessary work credits, you may be eligible for benefits.

The SSA will assess your application, review your medical evidence, and possibly request a Consultative Examination (CE) if more information is needed. If approved, you'll receive monthly payments based on your earning history.

How to Qualify for SSDI

Qualifying for SSDI in South Carolina depends on your medical condition and your work history.

To qualify for SSDI, you must have a medical condition that meets the SSA's definition of disability. This means a condition that stops you from working and seriously interferes with basic work activities. The condition must last at least a year or result in death.

You also need enough work credits, which are earned through working and paying Social Security taxes. The required credits vary depending on your age when you become disabled, however, most applicants need 40 credits to be eligible.

Consultative Examination (CE)

The Consultative Examination (CE) is a medical exam that may be requested by the SSA to gather more information about your health condition. The exam helps provide a clearer understanding of how your medical condition affects your ability to work. It's conducted by a medical professional paid for by the SSA.

How to Apply for SSDI in South Carolina

Applying for SSDI in South Carolina is a straightforward process. You can apply online, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. You will need to provide detailed information about your medical condition, treatment, work history, and financial situation.

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 in South Carolina, you will need the following information:

• Social Security Number
• Medical records, including diagnosis and treatment details
• Work history, including job descriptions and dates
• Most recent W-2 or tax return
• Contact details for healthcare providers
• List of medications and dosages

Be sure to provide complete and accurate information on your application to avoid delays or a denial.

If Your Application Is Denied

It's not unusual for SSDI applications to be denied the first time around. This can happen for various reasons, including incomplete documentation or misunderstanding the stringent requirements.

Many people find success by enlisting the help of a disability lawyer. A lawyer who specializes in SSDI knows the system well, can guide you through the process, and assist with gathering the necessary medical evidence. Hiring a lawyer can simplify the process and improve your chances of approval.

Supplemental Security Income in South Carolina

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a government program that assists low-income individuals in South Carolina who are disabled, blind, or 65 or older. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), SSI is not based on work history but instead on financial need.

How to Qualify for SSI in South Carolina

SSI recipients must meet low-income guidelines and 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

To qualify for SSI, applicants must fall into one of the qualifying groups: those who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 and above. Eligible applicants must also meet specific income and asset limitations.

The assessment takes into account income from all sources, as well as physical assets like property.

How to Apply for SSI in South Carolina

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

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

Applications for SSI can be submitted online, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. Be prepared to provide personal information about your financial situation, medical history, and details of your living arrangements.

Automatically Qualify for Other Programs

Receiving SSI in South Carolina can also automatically qualify you for other assistance programs, such as SNAP and Medicaid. These additional programs can help pay for basic needs like food and medical care.

South Carolina - Social Security Disability Office Locations