SSDI Benefits in South Dakota

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to South Dakota residents who can't work due to a disability. It's designed to offer support to those who have paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes but are now unable to work due to a severe medical condition.

The SSDI Program

SSDI functions by offering monthly payments to those who meet the eligibility criteria. The amount of these payments is based on the recipient's previous earnings and the total number of work credits they have accrued.

Once approved, beneficiaries may also qualify for Medicare after two years of receiving benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) oversees the program and handles applications and appeals.

How to Qualify for SSDI

In South Dakota, to qualify for SSDI, you must have a medical condition that fits the SSA's definition of a disability, and you must have worked long enough to earn the necessary work credits. The disability should last at least a year or be expected to result in death.

The Blue Book

The SSA utilizes a list of medical conditions known as the Blue Book to determine who qualifies for disability benefits. This guide lays out the specific requirements for each disability and helps the SSA evaluate each application.

What Are Work Credits?

Work credits measure your contributions to the Social Security system through payroll taxes. You can earn up to four credits per year. The number of credits needed to qualify for SSDI depends on your age at the time you become disabled, but most applicants need 40 credits to be eligible.

How to Apply for SSDI in South Dakota

You can apply for SSDI benefits in South Dakota online, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. The process involves providing detailed information about your medical condition, 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 Dakota, you will need the following information:

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

Having this information on hand will streamline the application process and ensure your information is complete and accurate.

If Your Application Is Denied

It's not uncommon for SSDI applications to be denied. If this happens, you have 60 days to file an appeal. You can challenge the decision through reconsideration, a hearing by an administrative law judge, a review by the Appeals Council, and even a federal court review if necessary.

A disability advocate can assist you with your application and the appeal process. These certified professionals understand the SSDI program and can guide you through each step.

Supplemental Security Income in South Dakota

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program in South Dakota is designed to provide financial aid to individuals who are elderly, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources.

While both SSI and SSDI provide support to individuals with disabilities, there are key differences. Unlike SSDI, SSI isn't tied to your work history and doesn't require work credits. SSI is a needs-based program and considers income and assets instead.

How to Qualify for SSI in South Dakota

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, you must meet certain income and resource limits. Your total income is considered, including earnings, Social Security benefits, and other financial support. Your total resources, such as bank accounts and property, must also be within specified limits.

How to Apply for SSI in South Dakota

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

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

Applying for SSI in South Dakota can be done by phone, in person at a local Social Security office, or, in some cases, online for adults applying due to disability. You'll need to provide information about your income, resources, living arrangements, and medical condition if you're applying due to a disability.

More South Dakota Benefits

In South Dakota, qualifying for SSI can also automatically make you eligible for other benefits, like Medicaid, to help with healthcare costs. You may also qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to aid with food expenses.

South Dakota - Social Security Disability Office Locations