Approximately one in every four adult Americans has some form of disability. However, the number is slightly high in Arkansas, with approximately 35% of residents in the state having some type of disability. Nicknamed “The Land of Opportunity,” Arkansas spends about $3.6 billion per year on healthcare costs.
Unfortunately, many of the residents in the state don’t know that they qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits that can help them with healthcare costs and independent living.
So, if you reside in Arkansas and have a learning disability, terminal illness or physical disability that prevents you from working, and is expected to last at least one year or result in death, you may qualify for SSD benefits.
Here is everything you need to know about social security local to Arkansas.
How to Qualify for SSDI Benefits in Arkansas
To be eligible for SSDI in Arkansas, you must have a disability preventing you from working and earning. However, this rule doesn’t apply to specific illnesses such as Multiple Sclerosis or cancer, but it may be a combination of several factors leading to a relatively low Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) for performing primary tasks required for employment.
Eligibility is also based on whether you have accrued enough “social security credits.” You earn these by working and paying Social Security taxes. The number of social security credits you need to qualify for SSDI benefits depends on your age when you become disabled.
Typically, it takes approximately $1,470 in earnings to get one social security credit. You need at least 20 credits in the past decade and at least 40 overall to qualify for SSDI in Arkansas.
If you are younger than 24, you generally need to have worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least one-half of the time since you turned 21.
To find out if you have accrued enough social security credits to qualify for SSD benefits, you can create a “My Social Security” account online.
How to Apply for SSDI in Arkansas
You can apply for SSDI benefits in Arkansas by completing the online application form at SSA.gov or by calling 800-772-1213. You can also apply for SSDI by visiting one of the 17 SSA field offices throughout the state, where you can apply in person.
Remember that SSDI is different from workers’ compensation. In most cases, workers’ compensation can offer temporary disability or total disability as long as you were injured while performing your job duties.
Additionally, you may also be eligible for state disability benefits in Arkansas. These benefits are paid to residents who cannot work due to a non-work-related injury or illness and have exhausted their leave balance.
To help you with the application process, it is recommended that you seek the assistance of an experienced Arkansas Social Security Disability lawyer who can help you navigate the system and ensure that your application is complete and accurate.
An experienced SSD lawyer will also be able to represent you at your disability hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge, if necessary.
Arkansas Initial Application Approval Time
The good news is that Arkansas has been slightly ahead of the national average for approval of SSD applications in recent years. In 2021, the approval rate for Arkansas was 33%, compared to the national average of 32%.
The initial application approval process takes an average of four to five months in Arkansas. If you are denied benefits, you can appeal the decision and request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. The appeals process can take several months.
It is important to note that you will not receive a lump sum payment for back benefits if you are approved for SSD benefits.
Your first monthly benefit will be paid the following month after your date of entitlement and will continue monthly until you reach retirement age, or your condition improves.
How to Appeal a Denial in Arkansas
Unfortunately, more than 68% of SSDI applications in Arkansas are usually denied. While this number may seem discouragingly high, it is because most applicants fail to include enough supporting documents with their initial application.
Working with an experienced disability lawyer in Arkansas can go a long way in increasing your chances of being approved for benefits on the first try. An attorney will gather all the documents required and help you build a strong case.
If you are denied SSD benefits, you can appeal the decision by requesting an appeal hearing. You must file your appeal within 60 days of receiving the denial notice.
It is important to note that Arkansas has one of the longest wait times for a hearing. In 2021, the average wait time was 18 months.
While this may seem like a long time to wait, it is important to remember that most people who appeal their denial and request a hearing are eventually approved for benefits.
If you cannot wait that long, you can ask for an expedited hearing. You will need to prove that you have a terminal illness or face eviction or foreclosure.
You can also ask for an expedited hearing if you are experiencing financial hardship. To do this, you will need to provide proof of your financial situation, such as bank statements or pay stubs.
Once your appeal is approved, you will receive a notice in the mail with the date, time, and location of your hearing. At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present evidence and testify about your disability.
What Are the Other Arkansas Benefits?
Unluckily, not every disabled individual in Arkansas qualifies for SSDI benefits. The good thing is that other benefits are available for eligible residents with limited financial resources, such as the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for low-income adults who are blind, disabled, or over 65 years old.
Arkansas also provides Medicaid for disabled residents who cannot afford to pay for their own medical care. You may be eligible for Medicaid if you receive SSI benefits or meet the program’s income and resource guidelines.
To learn more about these programs and whether you are eligible, contact your local Arkansas Social Security office or the Arkansas Department of Human Services.
Summary
If you are disabled and live in Arkansas, there is a good chance that you qualify for SSDI benefits. The application process can be daunting, but our team of experienced disability lawyers can help guide you through every step.
In most cases, your initial application will be processed and approved within a few months. However, if your claim is denied, don’t worry – we can help you appeal the decision. And if you are looking for other assistance, our firm can also connect you with resources that can help you get back on your feet.
Contact us today to speak with an experienced disability lawyer in Arkansas – we’re here to help.
