South Carolina Disability Benefits Overview

Unlike some states, South Carolina doesn’t have a state-run disability insurance program for short-term or long-term disability. However, South Carolina residents can still apply for federal SSDI and SSI benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA).

For those seeking state-level benefits, options typically include:

• Workers’ Compensation: If the disability is job-related, workers' compensation may apply.
• State Employees: South Carolina offers disability benefits to state employees under the South Carolina Retirement System.

Federal Disability Benefits in South Carolina

In South Carolina, the SSA provides disability benefits, but eligibility is determined by strict federal guidelines that apply across all states. Here’s a breakdown of federal disability programs in South Carolina:

• SSDI: For those who have a history of working and paying into Social Security. Eligibility is based on your work history and the severity of your disability.
• SSI: A needs-based program for individuals who are disabled, elderly, or blind, and have limited income and resources.

Eligibility for SSDI and SSI in South Carolina

Eligibility for SSDI

To qualify for SSDI in South Carolina, you must:

• Have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a specific number of years
• Be diagnosed with a severe disability that prevents you from working
• Meet SSA’s definition of disability, which includes being unable to work for at least 12 months or having a condition that is expected to result in death.

Work credits are required to be eligible for SSDI. Generally, you need to have earned at least 20 work credits in the last 10 years to qualify. These credits are based on the amount of money you earn through payroll taxes.

Eligibility for SSI

SSI is a federal program that’s available to individuals who:

• Have a disability, blindness, or are elderly
• Have limited income and financial resources (the income threshold changes yearly)
• Have a medical condition that meets the SSA’s definition of disability and will last at least 12 months or result in death

Since SSI is needs-based, your eligibility also depends on the amount of resources and income you have. For SSI, there is a strict income and asset limit, which is lower than the requirements for SSDI.

Application Process in South Carolina

Applying for SSDI and SSI benefits in South Carolina follows the same process as in other states:

1. Submit an online application on the SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov.
2. Provide medical documentation from your healthcare providers showing how your condition limits your ability to work.
3. Complete a work history report (for SSDI) or an income report (for SSI).
4. Follow up with SSA for updates and potential requests for additional documents.

Note: It’s common for initial SSDI and SSI applications to be denied. If this happens, you have the right to appeal the decision through several stages, including reconsideration and an administrative hearing.

South Carolina Workers' Compensation Disability Benefits

If your disability is job-related, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in South Carolina. To qualify, you must have sustained an injury or illness while performing your job duties. Workers’ compensation provides:

• Medical benefits to cover treatment for your injury or illness
• Temporary disability benefits while you recover
• Permanent disability benefits if the injury results in long-term disability

Eligibility for workers' compensation benefits is based on proving that your injury occurred during the course of your employment and that it directly impacts your ability to work.

How to File for Workers’ Compensation in South Carolina:

1. Report your injury or illness to your employer immediately.
2. File a claim with the South Carolina Workers' Compensation Commission.
3. Submit medical records and evidence of your injury.

If you are denied workers' compensation, you have the right to appeal the decision.

South Carolina State Employee Disability Benefits

For state employees in South Carolina, disability benefits are provided through the South Carolina Retirement System. State employees who become permanently disabled may be eligible for:

• Disability retirement benefits, which are based on your years of service and average salary
• Medical benefits, including healthcare coverage during retirement

If you are a state employee, you should contact your HR department or the South Carolina Retirement System for more detailed information.