Illinois Attorneys for Social Security Disability Benefit Types

Skilled Lawyers for Social Security Disability Benefits in Chicago

Social Security is more than just a federal retirement program; it also offers disability benefits for those who qualify. There are two general Social Security benefit types for those with disabilities: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). There are specific requirements for each, and the majority of applicants are denied the first time they apply for benefits. If you or someone close to you is suffering from a disability and is unable to work, it is important to have an experienced Social Security disability benefits attorney in your corner to help you qualify for benefits and navigate you through the disability process.

Pearson Disability Law, LLC was founded with the sole purpose of helping those in the Chicago area and throughout Illinois with disabilities qualify for Social Security disability benefits. Attorney Jonathan L. Pearson, the managing attorney of our firm, has helped thousands of claimants with their disability claims. Mr. Pearson is a Chicago Bar Association member and a member of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR). He handles each case personally on a contingency basis, meaning you do not pay attorney fees unless he secures benefits for you.

What is the Difference between SSDI and SSI?

Both Social Security Disability benefit types pay cash benefits to recipients, but there are distinct eligibility requirements for each.

Disability Insurance Benefits (SSDI)

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a disability insurance program funded through payroll taxes and run by the Social Security Administration. To be eligible, applicants must have accumulated a certain number of work credits. Generally, an individual has to have worked for five out of the last ten years in order to accumulate the necessary credits. It is still possible to collect SSDI once you reach full retirement age. Dependent benefits may also be available for spouses, ex-spouses and minor children of qualified applicants. Those who have not earned enough work credits to qualify for SSDI might be still be able to qualify for benefits through SSI. SSDI can be especially beneficial for people over the age of 50, since it can provide them with benefits based on the income they have earned over their career, and qualifying for benefits may be somewhat easier.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program that is funded through general taxes but still operated by the Social Security Administration. SSI benefits are available to applicants who have never worked or have not earned enough work credits to qualify for SSDI. To be eligible, applicants must meet the same medical requirements as SSDI as well as certain financial requirements. The formula for determining financial eligibility for SSI is quite complex and is based primarily on monthly income and assets, although some assets and income sources may be excluded from consideration.

Social Security disability benefit types can be difficult to understand. At Pearson Disability Law, LLC, we welcome the opportunity to explain these programs to you and help determine if you qualify. If you or a loved one has a disability and resides in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois, contact our office today at 312-999-0999 to schedule a free, personalized consultation.