Understanding SSDI and SSI in Wisconsin

Before applying, it’s important to know which program you should apply for:

• SSDI: This program is designed for individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. To qualify, you must have earned a sufficient number of work credits based on your work history. In Wisconsin, just like the rest of the U.S., you need to have worked for a certain amount of time to be eligible for SSDI.
• SSI: This program is intended for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 and older. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require a work history, making it a viable option for individuals in Wisconsin who haven’t worked much or at all.

Eligibility Requirements for SSDI in Wisconsin

To qualify for SSDI in Wisconsin, you need to meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Work History: To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a certain number of years. The number of work credits you need depends on your age at the time of disability. For example:
• If you’re under 24, you generally need 6 credits in the last 3 years.
• If you’re between 24 and 31, you generally need to have worked for at least half of the time between 21 and the time you became disabled.
• If you’re over 31, you typically need at least 20 credits earned in the 10 years before you became disabled.
• Medical Disability: To qualify, your condition must meet the SSA’s definition of disability. This means your condition must prevent you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA) and must last at least 12 months or be expected to result in death. You must have sufficient medical evidence (doctor’s reports, test results, etc.) to prove your disability.

Eligibility Requirements for SSI in Wisconsin

If you don’t have sufficient work history for SSDI, you may still qualify for SSI in Wisconsin. Here’s what you need to qualify:

• Income and Resources: SSI is need-based. This means your income and assets must be below the limits set by the SSA. In Wisconsin, the SSA will consider all your income, including wages, benefits, and other sources. You must also meet the resources limit, which is generally $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. Certain resources, such as your primary home and car, may not count against this limit.
• Medical Disability: Just like SSDI, to qualify for SSI, you must have a qualifying medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

How to Apply for SSDI or SSI in Wisconsin

The application process for SSDI or SSI in Wisconsin is similar to the process in other states. Here’s how you can apply:

• Online Application: The fastest and easiest way to apply is online through the Social Security Administration (SSA) website at www.ssa.gov. The online application allows you to apply for both SSDI and SSI and provides detailed instructions.
• Apply by Phone: You can also apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. They will guide you through the application process.
• In-Person: If you prefer, you can apply in person at your local Social Security office in Wisconsin. However, keep in mind that due to the ongoing pandemic, many offices may still have limited in-person services, so it’s best to check availability before you go.
• Documentation: Regardless of how you apply, you will need to provide medical records, proof of income, proof of residency, and other relevant information to support your claim. Be prepared to provide detailed medical documentation from your healthcare providers, including any test results and doctors’ notes.

Understanding the Approval Process in Wisconsin

Once you submit your application, the SSA will review your case. The approval process in Wisconsin typically follows these steps:

• Initial Review: After your application is submitted, the SSA will review your application and the medical evidence. This typically takes 3 to 5 months for an initial decision. In Wisconsin, this timeline can vary slightly depending on the case load of the local SSA office.
• Reconsideration: If your application is denied (which happens to many applicants), you have the right to request a reconsideration. This means your case will be reviewed by someone else within the SSA. This stage can take another 3 to 4 months.
• Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If you are denied at the reconsideration stage, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). In Wisconsin, the wait time for a hearing can be 12 to 18 months, depending on the specific office.
• Appeals: If you’re still denied after the ALJ hearing, you can appeal to the Appeals Council and, in some cases, even take your case to federal court.

How Long Does the Process Take in Wisconsin?

The total time to get a disability case approved in Wisconsin can vary significantly, but on average, it may take 1 to 3 years from the initial application to a final decision, depending on factors such as:

• Whether your claim is approved at the initial stage or requires an appeal.
• The complexity of your medical condition.
• The volume of cases being processed in your area.

Some applicants may experience quicker approvals, especially if their condition is on the Compassionate Allowances list for expedited processing.