SSI & SSDI
The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs are the largest of several Federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities. While these two programs are different in many ways, both are administered by the Social Security Administration and only individuals who have a disability and meet medical criteria may qualify for benefits under either program. Individual can apply for SSI beginning at age 18.
How do I apply?
Social Security Disability Insurance pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you are "insured," meaning that you worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes.

Supplemental Security Income pays benefits based on financial need.

When you apply for either program, SSI will collect medical and other information from you (about your young adult) and make a decision about whether or not they meet Social Security's definition of disability .

You can use the Benefits Eligibility Screening Tool to find out which programs may be able to pay your young adult benefits.

The application can be completed online.

Having worked with many families over the years, as well as collaborated with many other professionals, we know oftentimes a young adult is denied SSI upon initial application. It is important to know that you can and should appeal this decision. Sometimes a denial may be due to something as small as an item of missing paperwork, and other times it can be a more lengthy process. Just remember to keep diligent and exhaust your appeal options, because in the long-run the financial and medical supports awarded through SSI/SSDI outweigh the process. If you receive a denial letter, the Internet Appeal is a starting point to request a review of their decision about your young adult’s eligibility for disability benefits.

What if I was previously denied?
Medical reasons, you can complete and submit the required Appeal Request and Appeal Disability Report online. The disability report asks you for updated information about your young adult’s medical condition and any treatment, tests or doctor visits since the decision.

Non-medical reasons, you should contact your local Social Security Office to request the review. You also may call the toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, to request an appeal.

Our local SSI Office:
7440 Providence Dr
Woodridge, Illinois 60517
1-866-303-2724 or TTY: 1-630-852-2607
Additional Questions?
Additional information and resources can also be located on the Transition Services Webpage:  https://d86.hinsdale86.org/Page/1251


If you still have questions or want more information, simply reply to this email or reach out to Taryn Chrapkowski at 630- 468-4406 or tchrapko@hinsdale86.org.
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This information was compiled by the Tuesday Transition Tidbits Committee- Taryn Chrapkowski, Ashley Principe, and Heather Riggs.
The Transition Center
7302 Clarendon Hills Road
Darien, IL 60561
Phone: (630) 468-4318 • Fax: (630) 468-4591