If you have a disability that prevents you from working, you should consider applying for disability benefits in Illinois. Although the state counts itself among 45 states that do not offer a state-funded disability benefits program for its residents, you still have options through federal programs.
The Social Security Administration has two programs providing disability benefits for Illinois residents. The Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance programs provide monthly payments and access to medical benefits.
If you’re wondering how to apply for disability benefits in Illinois, this guide from National Disability Experts explains the application process for the SSI and SSDI programs. As you read through it, remember that a disability lawyer is your best source for answers to any questions that come to mind about the application process and anything else you want to know about qualifying for disability benefits in Illinois.
Differences Between The SSI And SSDI Programs
An excellent place to begin the application process for disability benefits is with an explanation of the differences between SSI and SSDI. SSDI is an entitlement program that you become eligible for by working at jobs or through self-employment and paying Social Security taxes on your income.
If you work long enough, you become eligible for Social Security retirement benefits when you reach full retirement age. You become eligible for SSDI benefits if you cannot work because of a disabling medical condition before being old enough to collect retirement benefits.
SSI is a needs-based program without a work requirement for eligibility as you find with SSDI. You must be unable to pay for essentials, such as food and shelter, and have little or no income with assets valued at $2,000 or less. Couples where both spouses are eligible for SSI may qualify with assets of $3,000 or less.
SSI provides a monthly payment if you meet any of the following criteria:
- Age 65 or older with or without a qualifying disability.
- An adult or child who is blind.
- An adult or child with a qualifying disability.
The Social Security Administration uses the exact definition of disabled to determine eligibility for SSDI applicants and adults applying for disability benefits through the SSI program. You must be unable to do substantial gainful activity because of a medically determinable mental or physical impairment expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. A different disability definition applies to children applying for SSI.
An application for SSI submitted on behalf of a child must be supported by medical records proving the child has a physical or mental impairment causing marked and severe functional limitations. The impairment or combination of impairments must have lasted or be expected to last at least one year or result in death. A disability lawyer at National Disability Experts can explain an applicant’s eligibility requirements to qualify for disability benefits through SSI and SSDI.
How To Apply For Disability Benefits?
An application for SSDI may be completed online at the Social Security Administration website. Adults younger than 65 may apply online for SSI, but the online process cannot be used for applications on behalf of adults 65 and older and for blind or disabled children.
If you do not wish to apply online or are not eligible to use the online process, SSDI and SSI applications may be completed at a local office of the Social Security Administration. If you prefer to begin the application process using the phone, you may do so by calling Social Security at 800-772-1213.
What Do You Need To Apply For Disability Benefits In Illinois?
You’ll need to have the following information available to apply for disability benefits in Illinois:
- Personal information, including date and place of birth and your Social Security number.
- Marriage and divorce information, including the name of the current and former spouse.
- Names and dates of birth of minor children.
- Information about your medical history, including medical records containing diagnosis and treatment information.
- Past work and education information.
Depending on whether you are applying for SSI, SSDI, or both, you may be asked for additional information and records about military service and discharge, citizenship, and information about workers’ compensation settlements or current benefits you receive.
Help Is Available From National Disability Experts
About two-thirds of claims for disability benefits are rejected after the initial review process, but that does not mean you should give up. National Disability Experts successfully help Illinois residents obtain disability benefits through the SSI and SSDI programs by challenging denied claims through the disability appeal process.
You have only a limited amount of time to appeal a denial of claim, so you must act quickly to avoid losing your right to appeal. Contact National Disability Experts today for a free consultation and claim evaluation with an experienced disability lawyer.