Social Security Disability is a program to help individuals who cannot make money by working because of a chronic illness or disability that interferes with daily activities.

Social Security's disability definition is based on your inability to work. They consider you disabled under Social Security rules if:

• you cannot do work that you did before,
• they decide that you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical  condition(s), and
• your disability lasts or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.

The social security administration uses a listing of impairments to help them decide who may be eligible for disability. You can take a look at kidney disease-related impairments HERE.

Would you like to apply for disability? You can complete some or all of the forms online, or you can call and schedule an appointment (1-800-772-1213). Please read over the Adult Disability Starter Kit before applying. This kit answers common questions about applying for benefits, and includes a worksheet that will help you gather the information you need. If you have a social worker, he/she can also help you figure out if you are eligible for disability.

You CAN work and still receive disability payments

If you are eligible for and receive disability benefits, you can also apply for the SSA's work incentives program for beneficiaries (Ticket To Work Program). This program can help you regain financial independence through vocational rehabilitation. You will still receive disability benefits while slowly working towards independence in the workplace. Work incentive programs vary by state - Click HERE for more information and state programs.

You can also call 1-866-968-7842  for more information on the Ticket To Work program.

 

Social Security Disability for Children

Children under the age of 18 can qualify if he or she meets Social Security’s definition of disability for children, and if his or her income and resources fall within the eligibility limits - your income will also be considered. You can take a look of disability definitions for children HERE.

Please read over the Child Disability Starter Kit before applying for your child. This kit answers common questions about applying for benefits, and includes a worksheet that will help you gather the information you need. If your child has a social worker, he/she can also help you figure out if you are eligible for disability.

 

If you need help with any of these materials, you can call the social security administration toll-free at 1-800-772-1213. For more information online, go to: http://www.ssa.gov/disability/.