Eligibility Requirements for SSDI and SSI in South Carolina

Before applying for Social Security Disability benefits in South Carolina, it’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements for both SSDI and SSI:

• SSDI: You may qualify for SSDI if you have worked a certain number of years and paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. The amount of time you need to work depends on your age and when your disability occurred.
• SSI: SSI is based on financial need, so you don’t need a work history to qualify. Instead, you must meet income and asset limits, and your disability must prevent you from working.

Both SSDI and SSI require that your disability significantly limits your ability to work and has lasted, or is expected to last, for at least 12 months or result in death.

Steps to Apply for Disability in South Carolina

Step 1: Gather Necessary Documentation

Before you apply for disability benefits, it’s important to have all the necessary documentation ready. This will include:

• Medical records: A complete record of your medical treatment, diagnoses, and prognosis.
• Work history: Detailed information about your past jobs, including dates of employment and job duties.
• Personal information: Your Social Security number, birth certificate, or other identification documents.

Having all your information organized and ready will help streamline the process and avoid delays.

Step 2: Start the Application Process

You can apply for SSDI or SSI in South Carolina in several ways:

• Online: The quickest and easiest way to apply is through the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) online portal at www.ssa.gov. The online application allows you to apply for both SSDI and SSI benefits.
• By Phone: You can also apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. If you have a hearing or speech impairment, you can use the TTY number at 1-800-325-0778.
• In Person: If you prefer to apply in person, you can visit your local Social Security office in South Carolina. You can find the nearest office on the SSA website or by calling the SSA.

Step 3: Complete the Application

When completing the application, be sure to provide accurate and detailed information. Some of the information you’ll need includes:

• Your work history for the last 15 years (for SSDI).
• Medical history, including your doctors’ contact information, treatments, medications, and any hospital visits.
• Other disability-related information, such as the names of any specialists you’ve seen or any treatments you’ve tried.

It's essential to be thorough and honest when completing your application to avoid delays or denials.

Step 4: Submit the Application

After you complete the application, double-check all the information before submitting. Once submitted, the SSA will begin reviewing your case and will likely ask for additional information or medical records if needed.

Keep track of your application: After submission, make sure to regularly check the status of your application through the SSA website or by calling them.

What Happens After You Apply?

After you submit your application, the SSA will review your case. This process can take several months, typically around 3 to 5 months for the initial decision. Here’s what to expect:

• Review by Disability Determination Services (DDS): Your application will be sent to the DDS office in South Carolina, where trained medical professionals will evaluate your case based on your medical evidence and work history.
• Initial Decision: Once your case is reviewed, you will receive a decision on whether you qualify for benefits. Most first-time applicants are denied, even if they have a valid claim. If this happens, you can appeal the decision.

Appeals Process in South Carolina

If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. The SSA offers several steps in the appeals process:

• Request for Reconsideration: This is the first step in the appeals process. The SSA will review your case again and check whether any new evidence or errors were made in the initial decision. This process typically takes around 1 to 3 months.
• Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is your opportunity to present your case in person. The wait for a hearing in South Carolina may take 12 to 18 months due to high demand.
• Further Appeals: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can appeal to the Appeals Council and, if necessary, to federal court.