SSDI Benefits in Vermont

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can help Vermont residents who are unable to work due to a disability. The program sends out monthly payments to people who meet certain health and work-related requirements.

Funding for SSDI comes from the Social Security taxes that everyone pays while working. If you're approved for disability benefits, you will receive monthly payments to assist you with daily living expenses.

How to Qualify for SSDI in Vermont

To qualify for SSDI in Vermont, you have a medical condition that prevents you from working. This condition must either last at least a year or be terminal.

You must also have enough work credits, which are earned by paying Social Security taxes during your working years. These credits function like insurance, providing monthly payments if you become disabled and are unable to earn an income.

SSA Blue Book

The SSA relies on a guide known as the Blue Book to evaluate your eligibility. This guide lists severe medical conditions and the eligibility criteria for each one. If your medical condition is found in the Blue Book and you meet the standards for that disability, your application for SSDI benefits might be approved

Work Credits

Work credits are a way to quantify the time you've spent working and contributing to Social Security. Every year, you can earn up to four credits. The required number to qualify for SSDI depends on your age at the time of disability. Generally, most people need 40 credits, with at least 20 of them earned in the last decade.

How to Apply for SSDI in Vermont

In Vermont, you can apply for SSDI online, over the phone, or in person. The quickest method is online.

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.

You will need to have some documents ready before applying. Be ready to submit your proof of identity, medical records, work history, and other evidence showing how your disability stops you from working.

Consultative Examination

The SSA may ask you to have a Consultative Examination (CE) to gather more information about your disability claim. The SSA will pay for this examination, conducted by an approved healthcare provider.

During the CE, the medical professional will assess your disability and how it influences your ability to work. The results are then sent to the SSA to help examiners make a decision on your claim.

After your application, expect a waiting period. The SSA will carefully review your application, which may take several months.

If Your Application Is Denied

If the SSA denies your SSDI application, don't lose hope. You can appeal the decision, starting with a request for reconsideration. The deadline to appeal is 60 from the date of the denial. Many people choose to work with a Vermont disability lawyer at this stage to improve their chances of success.

If you lose the first appeal, you can request a hearing before a judge. If you lose the second appeal, you can make your case before an Appeals Council. The last stage of the appeal process is a federal court review.

Supplemental Security Income in Vermont

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is available for low-income Vermonters who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled. You may be eligible for SSI if you belong to one of these categories.

How to Qualify for SSI in Vermont

To be eligible for SSI, you must comply with specific income and asset guidelines. These include evaluating your wages and any other money or property you may own.

Additionally, you must be in one of the following:

• 65 years and older
• Blind
• Disabled

How to Apply for SSI in Vermont

Applying for SSI in Vermont is similar to SSDI. You can apply online, by phone, or at your local SSA office. Be prepared to provide proof of identity, income, living situation, and any medical information if you're disabled.

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

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

Qualifying for SSI automatically makes you eligible for additional benefits. These extra benefits may include Medicaid, food stamps, or other state-provided programs designed to offer support to Vermont residents in need.

Vermont - Social Security Disability Office Locations