Delaware residents who are disabled and can’t work can apply for Social Security disability benefits in Delaware. If you have worked before but you can’t work now because of a medical condition, or if you have always had a medical condition that makes it impossible for you to work you may qualify for disability benefits.
Applying for Social Security disability benefits in Delaware requires a lot of attention to detail, so it’s a good idea to speak with a Delaware disability attorney and get professional help with your disability benefit application in Delaware.
If your application for disability benefits in Delaware is approved you can use the money you receive to pay for any of your living expenses like rent or mortgage, food, utilities, or medical care.
Understanding The Definition Of Disability In Delaware
Delaware defines disability the same way that the Social Security Administration does. The SSA’s definition of disability is a physical or mental condition that you expect to last at least a year and makes it impossible for you to engage in substantial gainful activity. Substantial gainful activity just means work that you can get paid for.
You may also qualify for other benefits like housing assistance, WIC or SNAP, help with utility bills, or reduced-cost medical care if you receive disability benefits in Delaware.
What Disabling Conditions Qualify In Delaware?
There are more than 200 physical and mental health conditions that make someone eligible for Social Security disability benefits in Delaware.
To find out if the medical condition you have is recognized by the Social Security Administration you can search the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book on the SSA’s website, all of the conditions that qualify for disability benefits are listed in the Blue Book.
To prove that you meet the SSA’s requirements for disability based on the Blue Book listing you will have to submit all of your medical records and any other documentation that you have proving that you can’t work because of the condition that you have.
To qualify for disability benefits in Delaware you also need to have earned work credits. You can earn up to 4 credits per year. In most cases, you must have worked at least five of the last ten years to have enough work credits to qualify for disability benefits.
Types of Disability Benefits Available in Delaware
There are two types of disability benefits that you might qualify for in Delaware: SSDI and SSI. The type of benefit that you qualify for depends on whether or not you have always had a disability or just recently became disabled.
Delaware Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI is a disability benefit for people who have been able to work in the past and only recently became disabled. When you were working deductions from your paycheck were paid into the SSDI system, so now that you are disabled you can apply for benefits.
You will have to prove that you meet the Blue Book listing requirements for the condition that you have and that you expect that your condition will last at least a year.
If you are approved for SSDI in Delaware, you will receive a monthly benefit to help you pay for living expenses. Delaware has one of the highest average SSDI monthly payment, which is $1599.97
Delaware Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a disability benefit that is paid to adults who can’t work because they’ve always had a disability, or the parents of children who are disabled if the parents can’t work because they have to take care of the child.
Parents whose application for SSI is for their child will need to turn in documentation every month showing that the money was spent only on the child’s expenses.
You will also have to show that your total household income is below the income cap set by the SSA. To prove your income is below the cap you will need to submit W-2s, tax returns, or other financial documents that show your total income.
If you have always had a disability and so have never worked you can apply for SSI on your 18th birthday to help you pay for your living expenses.
State of Delaware Disability Programs
Delaware doesn’t have a state-sponsored short-term disability program, but you may have coverage through a previous employer. Usually, there is a 30-day waiting period for coverage after you opt-in. And, if you become disabled, you can apply for benefits starting the 8th day after you become disabled. Check with your previous employer to see if you have short-term disability coverage.
If you have long-term disability insurance through your previous employer you don’t have to choose between Social Security disability benefits and long-term disability benefits. You can receive both.
But, you can’t make a profit on disability benefits. If the total of long-term disability benefits and Social Security disability benefits would be more than your salary your SSDI will be reduced in whatever amount is necessary to bring your total benefit under your previous salary.
Find A Disability Lawyer In Delaware
Most applications for disability benefits in Delaware are denied the first time. Usually because of small errors in paperwork, missing a deadline, or not including enough supporting documentation.
Working with a Delaware disability lawyer can improve the chances of your application getting approved the first time. A Delaware disability lawyer can be a great resource to help you through the process of applying for disability benefits and do things like:
- Evaluate Your Case
- Gather Medical Evidence
- Prepare and File Your Application
- Navigate Complex Regulations.
- Represent You at Hearings
- Communicate with SSA for you
- Challenge Denial
- Ensure Accurate Documentation
- Advise on Work History and Eligibility
You will never have to spend money upfront to talk with a Delaware disability lawyer. Fill out a Free Case Evaluation now to get connected with a Delaware disability attorney who can answer your questions and give you advice.
How Much Disability Can You Receive in Delaware?
If you are approved for Social Security disability benefits in Delaware, you could receive the maximum SSDI payment of $3,822 a month from the Social Security Administration. The maximum SSI benefit is $943 for one person, and $1,415 a month if you are married to someone that also receives SSI.
To find out what your Social Security benefit payment could be use our disability benefit calculator. Then, reach out to a Delaware Social Security lawyer who can help you start your application.
