Illinois SSI/SSDI Benefits

Thousands of disability applications are submitted to the Social Security Administration every year from Illinois residents who are unable to work and support themselves or their loved ones. Unfortunately, the majority of these disability claims will be denied during the initial application process, and many will be denied during the reconsideration review, which means a large percentage of disability applicants in Illinois will need to appear before an administrative law judge in order to receive the disability benefits they are entitled to. If you are struggling with a physical or mental disability that prevents you from working in Illinois, consult an experienced SSI/SSDI disability attorney before filing your application with the SSA, or after having your claim denied. With a reputable lawyer on your side, you can significantly improve your chances of receiving a favorable outcome in your disability case.

Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal income supplement program that provides monthly cash payments to disabled, elderly (65 or older) or blind individuals with limited income and resources who are unable to work. SSI benefits are intended to meet basic needs for clothing, food and shelter, and the monthly payment amount is based on financial need, unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which is based on how long the individual worked and paid Social Security taxes. Children who are disabled or blind may also be eligible for Supplemental Security Income benefits, as well as individuals 65 and older without disabilities who meet the Social Security Administration’s financial limits. Illinois residents who qualify for SSI benefits may also be eligible for an additional payment from the state of Illinois, called the state supplemental payment, which is administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services.

Social Security Disability Insurance

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), another federally-funded benefits program providing cash payments to individuals with disabilities and certain members of their families, differs from SSI in that only those who worked long enough and paid Social Security (FICA) taxes prior to becoming disabled are eligible for benefits. In order to qualify for SSDI benefits, you must have accumulated at least 20 work credits during the previous ten years, typically at a rate of four credits for each year you paid Social Security taxes, though older workers may need additional credits to qualify. When you apply for SSDI benefits, the Social Security Administration will collect medical and other information about you and make a decision about whether or not you meet its definition of disability. If your disability application is denied, there are a series of steps you can take to appeal the denied claim, including submitting a reconsideration review to the SSA, and, if your reconsideration is denied, appearing before an administrative law judge at a disability hearing.

An Experienced SSI/SSDI Disability Attorney Can Help

The federal SSI and SSDI benefits programs were created to provide financial assistance to individuals with disabilities that prevent them from working and supporting their families. Unfortunately, only about 29% of Illinois disability claims are approved during the initial application process, and many disabled individuals are denied the benefits they are entitled to, which can be frustrating and arduous for those who have bills to pay and no other source of income. If you are suffering from a physical or mental disability that prevents you from working and earning an income, you may be eligible for SSI or SSDI benefits from the Social Security Administration. Contact a knowledgeable SSI/SSDI disability attorney today to discuss the process of filing a claim for benefits, or appealing a denied SSI or SSDI claim.