SSDI Benefits in California

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal benefits program designed to provide financial support to individuals who can no longer work due to a severe long-term or permanent disability. Funded through payroll taxes, SSDI is a critical resource for many people in California who find themselves unable to earn a living due to their health condition.

How the SSDI Program Works in California

The SSDI program operates by accumulating "work credits" as you pay Social Security taxes during your working years. Essentially, these credits serve as your contribution to the SSDI program, like an insurance plan. When a disability prevents you from working, you can utilize these work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits, which can provide significant financial assistance during a difficult time.

Who Is Eligible for SSDI in California?

Eligibility for SSDI hinges on two main factors: sufficient work credits and a qualifying disability. You generally need at least 40 work credits, although the exact number of work credits can vary, depending on the age you became disabled.

To qualify for disability benefits, you must have a medical condition considered a disability by Social Security Administration standards. You must have a severe health issue that significantly restricts your ability to work and is expected to last at least a year or result in death.

How to Apply for SSDI in California

In California, applying for SSDI benefits is a straightforward process. You can submit an application online, call the Social Security Administration (SSA), or visit a local SSA office. When applying, be prepared to provide personal information, detailed medical records, a comprehensive work history, and financial information.

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.

Information needed to apply

To apply for SSDI in California, you will need to have the following information:

Personal Information: Your name, Social Security number, and proof of age.

Medical Evidence: Detailed medical records showing your disability, including information from doctors, hospitals, or clinics where you've been treated. This should also include lab and test results related to your condition.

Work History: Detailed information about where you've worked in the past 15 years, the kind of work you did, and the skills required for your jobs.

Income: Your earnings from work, as well as any other sources of income such as pensions, unemployment benefits, or money from family.

Additional Information: Depending on your situation, you might also need to provide information about your spouse and children, military service, or any workers' compensation benefits you've received.

Appealing a Denial

If your SSDI application is denied, you have the right to appeal. The appeal process must be initiated within 60 days of the decision notice and consists of four stages: Reconsideration, Hearing by an administrative law judge, Review by the Appeals Council, and finally, a Federal Court Review if required.

You can begin the appeal process by logging in to your mySocialSecurity account and selecting Request Reconsideration.

While not required, hiring a disability lawyer is often recommended. An experienced attorney can guide you throughout the appeals process. They can help you develop medical evidence and can speak for you at the hearing, increasing your chances of winning your appeal.

SSI Benefits in California

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another federal program administered by the SSA, providing financial assistance to elderly, blind, or disabled individuals with limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, eligibility for SSI is not based on work history but rather on financial need.

California is among the states that supplement the federal SSI payment with a State Supplementary Payment (SSP), enhancing the financial support provided to eligible residents. Beneficiaries can use these funds to help meet their basic needs, including food, clothing, and housing.

California's State Supplementary Payment (SSP) program enhances the benefits provided by the Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both these programs are managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the eligibility criteria are set at the federal level. If an individual meets the criteria for SSI, they also qualify for SSP. The benefits from both these programs are delivered as financial assistance.

To apply for SSI/SSP, please visit your local Social Security office or phone 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). You will need to provide information about your financial situation, including income and resources, as well as medical documentation if applying based on disability or blindness. Keep in mind that your living arrangement also plays a role in determining the benefit amount.

California - Social Security Disability Office Locations