The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 26% of the adults in Arizona are disabled and qualify for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI). In fact, about 12.7% of the adult population in the Grand Canyon state have mobility disabilities, while 11.2% struggle with cognition challenges.
At least 6.7% of the adult population cannot live independently, 5.9% have suffered some form of hearing loss, and another 4.6% have vision impairment challenges.
Therefore, if you live in Arizona and are disabled, you can benefit from SSDI, Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Arizona’s Workers’ compensation program.
However, you need to fully understand the different types of benefits available and how to apply for them. The best way to get started is by contacting your local Social Security office. Read on to learn more about social security local to Arizona.
How to Qualify for SSDI in Arizona
SSDI is a federal government program managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Therefore, federal disability laws apply.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers the SSDI program in Arizona through the state’s Department of Determination Services (DDS). The department is run and managed by the Arizona Department of Economic Security.
Although potential SSDI candidates are required to submit their disability claim to SSA, the state’s DDS is fully responsible for examining applicants and approving disability claims.
Typically, an applicant must meet certain conditions to be approved by the state’s DDS. In Arizona, disabled adults will only receive long-term disability benefits if they have paid into the Social Security trust fund for at least five of the last ten years.
Additionally, your disability must be expected to last for at least one year or result in death.
If you are found to be disabled and qualify for SSDI, you will receive monthly cash benefits to help you cover essential living expenses such as housing, food, and clothing. The amount of your monthly benefit will be based on your past earnings.
How to Qualify for Medicaid in Arizona
Arizona’s Medicaid program is known as the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). The program provides low-cost or no-cost health insurance to qualifying adults and children.
To qualify for AHCCCS, you must meet certain income and asset guidelines. For example, a single adult must have an annual income of $16,754 or less to qualify, while a family of four must have a combined annual income of $33,534 or less.
Additionally, you cannot have more than $2,000 in countable assets if you are single or $4,000 in countable assets if you are married.
Once you qualify for AHCCCS, you will have access to a wide range of healthcare services, including doctor’s visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and more.
How to Qualify for Supplemental Security Income in Arizona
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program that provides financial assistance to low-income adults and children who are blind or disabled.
To qualify for SSI, you must meet certain income and asset guidelines. For example, a single adult cannot have more than $2,000 in countable assets or $3,000 if you are married.
Additionally, your monthly income must be below a certain threshold. For example, a single adult cannot have more than $750 in monthly income, while a married couple cannot have more than $1,125 in combined monthly income.
If you qualify for SSI, you will receive a monthly cash benefit to help you cover essential living expenses such as housing, food, and clothing. The amount of your benefit will be based on your need.
How to Qualify for Arizona’s Workers’ Compensation Program
If you are injured at work, you may be eligible for Arizona’s workers’ compensation program. The program is designed to provide financial assistance to workers who are injured on the job.
To qualify for benefits, you must have a work-related injury or illness that prevents you from working. Additionally, you must have been employed for at least six months prior to your injury.
If you qualify for benefits, you will receive a percentage of your monthly salary to help you cover essential living expenses such as housing, food, and clothing. The amount of your benefit will be based on your income.
How to Apply for SSDI in Arizona
To apply for SSDI in Arizona, you must submit your disability claim application to the SSA. You can apply online at SSA.gov or in person. Currently, there are slightly over 18 Social Security field offices in the state.
In addition to your personal information, the SSA requires all applicants to submit their name, proof of age, work history, proof of citizenship, and the social security number.
Once you submit these details to SSA, the information will be transferred to the state’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) for review. The DDS is responsible for determining whether you are disabled and eligible for SSDI benefits.
To help make this determination, the DDS will obtain your medical records and may require you to undergo a physical or mental examination. Once the DDS has all of the information it needs, it will make a decision on your claim.
How to Appeal a Denial in Arizona
The approval rate for initial SSDI applications in Arizona is approximately 34.2%. The figure is slightly below the national average, but there is no need to worry because you can appeal the decision if your application is denied.
If your application is denied, you will receive a notice in the mail that includes the reason for the denial. The notice will also include information on how to file an appeal.
You have 60 days to file an appeal from the date of the denial notice. If you miss the deadline, you may still be able to file a late appeal, but it is best to submit your appeal as soon as possible.
There are four levels of appeals: reconsideration, hearing by an administrative law judge, review by the Appeals Council, and federal court review.
The majority of appeals are decided at the hearing level. Approximately 96% of appealed cases are decided in favor of the claimant.
If you are denied at the hearing level, you can still appeal the decision to the Appeals Council. The council will review your case and decide whether to overturn the denial or uphold the decision.
If the Appeals Council denies your appeal, you can file a civil suit in federal court. However, it is essential to note that most cases are not decided in favor of the claimant at this level.
It is best to consult with an experienced Arizona disability lawyer before filing an appeal. A lawyer can help you navigate the appeals process and give you the best chance of success.
Legal Giant Is Here to Help You!
Several social security programs and benefits are available to those who need them in Arizona. It can be confusing trying to determine which program is right for you or understanding the application process.
However, our team at Legal Giant is here to help. We have detailed information on each of the programs available in Arizona and how to qualify for them.
If you have any questions or need assistance applying, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We want to ensure that everyone in Arizona has access to the social security benefits they deserve.
