How to Apply for Disability If I Am Unemployed

Unemployment can create financial difficulties for you and your family, until you are able to find another job. If you become disabled while you are looking for work, however, your prospects change dramatically. Luckily, there are several income options to consider if you are disabled and unemployed, depending on your situation. The federal government offers the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability (SSDI) programs and your state may also offer assistance to people in your position.

Things You'll Need

• Proof of disability

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Instructions

Disability During Unemployment

• 1

  Contact your state's Department of Labor. Some states, New Jersey for example, have a program that provides income for people who become temporarily disabled while they are unemployed. These programs award disability funds for a set amount of time after you become totally disabled, as long as you meet their income criteria.

• 2

  Complete an application for disability payments. Applications are available from your state's Department of Labor. Provide information about your work and income history, your disability, and why your condition prevents you from finding employment.

• 3

  Submit proof of your disability. When you mail in the application form, you will need to include medical documentation proving that you are disabled. This should be provided and signed by your doctor.

SSI and SSDI

• 4

  Determine which program you should apply for. While both SSI and SSDI are run by the federal government, they have different requirements. SSDI draws its funds from Social Security, and to qualify for payments you must have paid Social Security taxes and earned at least $6,720 for the last three years. SSI is funded by the treasury and does not require a work history, but does have income and asset limits..

• 5

  Complete an application for disability. The applications are available on-line (ssa.gov), or you can call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office. You will need to provide proof of your identity, your medical records and history and information about your former earnings and current income.

• 6

  Fill out an Adult Disability Report form. If you are applying for SSDI, this form is available on-line (ssa.gov). If you are applying for SSI, your local Social Security office can help you.