People who live in Montana and can no longer work because of a disability can apply for Social Security disability benefits in Montana. If you have never been able to work because of a disability you may also be eligible for Montana disability benefits.
Applying for Social Security disability benefits in Montana can be a confusing process, so it’s a good idea to speak with a Montana disability attorney to help you navigate the application process.
When you apply for Social Security disability benefits in Montana you will need to submit copies of all your medical records and other documentation proving that you are disabled and can’t work.
If your application for disability benefits in Montana 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 Montana
The definition of disability in Montana is the same as the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability which states that: a 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.
If the state of Montana finds that you are disabled you may also qualify for other benefits like housing assistance, WIC or SNAP, help with utility bills, or reduced-cost medical care.
What Disabling Conditions Qualify In Montana?
There are more than 200 physical and mental health conditions that make someone eligible for Social Security disability benefits in Montana. All of the conditions that qualify for disability benefits are listed in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book. Every listing in the Blue Book also contains a list of special requirements that you must meet.
To find out if the medical condition you have is recognized by the Social Security Administration You can search the Blue Book on the SSA’s website, or you can visit your local SSA office to read through the Blue Book there.
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 Montana 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 Montana
There are two types of disability benefits: 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.
Montana 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. You paid into this program through deductions in your paycheck for all the years that you worked, so you are eligible to get paid benefits from this program if now you are disabled and can’t work.
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 Montana, you will receive a monthly benefit to help you pay for living expenses. The average monthly SSDI payment in Montana in 2024 is $1407.08
Montana Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is different from SSDI. SSI is a disability benefit paid to people who have never been able to work because of a disability. If you have never worked and won’t be able to work in the future you can apply for SSI.
If you’re a parent who has a disabled child, you may apply for SSI for your child. Parents who are low-income or can’t work because they must take care of their sick child can apply for SSI for the child’s expenses. If your application is approved, you 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.
State of Montana Disability Programs
Montana 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.
The state does not offer long-term disability benefits. But, if your previous employer offered long-term disability coverage and you opted into that, you can receive both long-term disability benefits and SSDI.
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 Montana
Applying for Social Security disability benefits in Montana can be confusing. Working with a Montana disability lawyer can make it easier. A Montana disability lawyer can be a great resource to help you through the process of applying for disability benefits. A disability attorney in Montana can help you:
- 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 Montana disability lawyer. Fill out a Free Case Evaluation now to get connected with a Montana disability attorney who can answer your questions and give you advice.
How Much Disability Can You Receive in Montana?
If you are approved for Social Security disability benefits in Montana, 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 Montana Social Security lawyer who can help you start your application.
