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Understanding disability benefits at the state level

| Jan 14, 2021 | Firm News

In the United States, most people who talk about disability benefits are referring to Social Security disability. This program is administered federally. However, SSDI does tie in with some benefits that are dealt with at the state level, and these benefits vary between states. Disabled Indiana residents should be aware of what programs are offered to them at both the federal and state levels of government.

The basics of SSDI

Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is available to people who can’t work due to disability. In order to qualify, workers must have been employed in the type of job covered by Social Security. They must also meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. That can change with time, and it may be different from what other organizations accept as a disability.

Disability benefits in Indiana

SSDI is typically only available to workers who are long-term disabled and won’t be able to work for a year. In many cases, people who have been approved to receive SSDI are also able to enroll in Medicaid. States administer Medicaid and provide health insurance to people below a certain income threshold. In Indiana, there are two streams of Medicaid.

Most disabled Indiana residents qualify for Medicaid through Hoosier Care Connect. Others may be eligible for coverage through traditional Medicaid. It all depends on what services they are already using and how their disability has been defined.

Social Security Disability is a large and complex program. It can be difficult for people to apply and receive approval for benefits on their own. Even small errors can affect acceptance into the program. It’s a good idea for Hoosiers who can’t work to get help when applying for or appealing a decision from SSDI.

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