SSDI in Arizona: Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that offers financial help to individuals who are unable to work due to being diagnosed with a medical condition that is a qualifying disability. Funded by payroll taxes, SSDI is available to support workers who have already paid into the Social Security system but are unable to maintain employment because of a medical condition. 

Even though SSDI is a federal program, applicants in Arizona are required to navigate specific state procedures. This guide provides a detailed look at eligibility for SSDI, benefits gained, and the application process in Arizona. To be eligible for SSDI in Arizona, applicants are required to meet medical, work history, and financial criteria as determined by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

SSDI Eligibility Criteria in Arizona

Medical Disability Requirements

The SSA calculates disability claims by using its "Blue Book," which provides a comprehensive list of qualifying medical conditions. To be considered disabled in Arizona, an individual needs to have been diagnosed with a severe medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The SSA will assess the following:

  • medical records provided by the applicant’s doctors and hospitals;
  • results from diagnostic tests such as MRIs, X-rays, and blood tests;
  • statements provided by healthcare providers that reveal the impact of the disabling medical condition on everyday life and, as a result, the work potential of the applicant;
  • whether the disability meets or equals a listing found in the Blue Book.

If an individual’s condition can’t be found listed in the Blue Book, the SSA may still grant benefits if the condition stops the applicant from taking part in substantial gainful activity (SGA).

Work Requirements

Qualifying for SSDI is based on work credits earned when paying Social Security taxes. The work credits required depend on the age of the applicant. In general, you must earn at least 40 Social Security credits to be eligible for Social Security benefits. You earn credits when you work and pay Social Security taxes.

The number of credits does not affect the amount of benefits you receive. The SSA uses the number of credits you have earned to determine your eligibility for disability benefits. It cannot pay benefits if you are deemed to not have sufficient credits.

The information below summarizes the SSA’s requirements.

  • Before age 24 years- you might be eligible if you have earned 6 credits in the 3-year period ending when your disability begins.
  • From age 24 to 31 years in general, you might be eligible if you have credit for working half the time between age 21 and the time your disability commences. For example, if you develop a disability at age 27, you will need 3 years of work (12 credits) out of the past 6 years (between ages 21 and 27).
  • Age 31 or older - in general, you must have at least 20 credits in the 10-year period immediately before your disability commenced.

Work credits are earned based on annual income, with a maximum of four credits earned per year.

Financial Requirements

SSDI is not based on financial necessity, but applicants may not exceed the SSA’s Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which in 2024 is:

  • $1,550 monthly for a non-blind individual;
  • $2,590 monthly for a blind individual.

State-Specific Eligibility Rules

SSDI is federally regulated and Arizona does not have any additional state-specific eligibility requirements. However, an applicant may be directed to Arizona’s Vocational Rehabilitation Program, which helps individuals with disabilities find employment if they do not qualify for SSDI.

SSDI Benefits in Arizona

Monthly Payment Amounts

SSDI benefits are calculated based on the applicant’s lifetime earnings. The average SSDI payment in Arizona is approximately $1,537 per month, with a maximum benefit of $3,822 in 2024.

Healthcare Benefits

After receiving SSDI for two years, a beneficiary will automatically qualify for Medicare, which usually covers stays in a hospital, medical appointments, and the cost of prescription drugs. Arizona also offers Medicaid (AHCCCS) to low-income individuals. The income limit for AHCCCs in Arizona depends on household size and gross monthly income. For a one-person household it is $1735, for 2 persons it is $2345, for 3 persons $2,954 and for 4 persons it is $3564.

Other State-Specific Benefits

Arizona SSDI recipients may also qualify for:

  • Arizona Long-Term Care System (ALTCS) for individuals needing extended care services
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if they have a low income

Applying for SSDI in Arizona

Steps to Apply

  1. Ensure you meet eligibility requirements through medical, work history, and financial situation.
  2. Gather medical evidence, including records, test results, and your doctor’s statements.
  3. Complete the SSDI application online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Arizona SSA office.
  4. Wait for a decision, which typically takes 3 to 5 months.

Documents Needed for Application

  • Proof of identity such as birth certificate, passport, or driver’s license;
  • Medical records from the relevant healthcare providers;
  • Work history; 
  • Financial records such as tax returns and pay stubs;
  • Social Security numbers for the applicant and dependents.

Application Timeline

The initial SSDI application process takes about 90 to 150 days. However, if more medical exams are needed, the process could take longer. If denied, the applicant may be able to go through the appeals process.

Appeals Process for Denied SSDI Applications in Arizona

Steps to Take if Denied

If an SSDI application ends up being denied, applicants may be able to appeal by using the following steps

  1. Request reconsideration, which normally involves submitting additional medical evidence within 60 days of denial.
  2. Request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) if reconsideration is denied, which could take from 12 to 18 months.
  3. If the ALJ denies benefits, the applicant may appeal to the SSA’s Appeals Council.
  4. If the above fails, the last step is filing a lawsuit in federal district court.

How Long is the Appeals Process?

Appeals could take anywhere from a few months to more than two years. Meeting deadlines and providing comprehensive medical evidence is vital to ensuring a successful appeal.

Resources for SSDI Applicants in Arizona

Applicants in Arizona may be able to request assistance from the following:

  • attending the local SSA Offices for an in-person application and assistance;
  • contacting the Arizona Vocational Rehabilitation Program, which assists those with disabilities return to work;
  • Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES): des.az.gov
  • Arizona Center for Disability Law, which provides legal advocacy for SSDI applicants

Working with an Arizona SSDI Lawyer

Navigating the SSDI process may be a challenge, but hiring an Arizona SSDI lawyer should be able to increase the chances of approval. A lawyer can:

  • help to gather and submit additional medical evidence;
  • help with filing appeals and meeting deadlines;
  • representing applicants at ALJ hearings.

Take a free evaluation today to connect with an experienced Arizona SSDI lawyer.

Additional Resources

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Understanding the SSDI process in Arizona can help applicants prepare well and therefore maximizing their chances of receiving benefits. If you require any assistance, consider contacting Arizona’s local resources or legal professionals for support.

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