Idaho Disability Benefits: A Guide to Monthly Payments

Important: We updated this article in April 2024 to ensure all info below is accurate. It’s frustrating when you can’t work because of a health issue. Did you know you might be eligible for Idaho disability benefits through two Social Security Administration programs? They are:

1. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Because they use the same eligibility criteria, you can apply to both programs at the same time. We compiled this guide to monthly payments to help Gem State residents get the support they deserve.

SSDI for Idaho Disability Benefits

The federal SSDI program is funded by deductions from workers’ paychecks. Let’s take a look at how to qualify for this program and how it works.

1. Who’s Eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance Payments?

Adults with disabilities must answer “yes” to all of these questions to apply for SSDI benefits:

• Does your doctor expect your health to keep you off the job for at least 12 months? If you can return to work in months or weeks because of a short-term disability, then you aren’t eligible.
• Have you seen a doctor for treatment within the last year? If not, you need a Disability Determination Services exam to confirm you’re disabled. Did you know an Idaho disability lawyer can cover doctor’s visits and medical records if you can’t pay for them?
• Are you between 18 and 67 and not receiving any Social Security benefits? The program stops paying at 67 since you start getting regular Social Security retirement.
• Have you worked at least 5 of the last 10 years in jobs where you paid Social Security taxes? Eligibility lapses once you stop working for 60 months. The work history requirement means children can only get dependent benefits through a disabled parent on SSDI.

Have some “no” answers? Don’t worry. The SSI program may be available to you.

2. How Much Does SSDI Pay?

Idaho disability benefits from SSDI equal 40% of your average monthly paycheck over 35 years of work. You could get more money each month if Congress authorizes a cost-of-living adjustment. On average, disabled employees receive $1,537 in monthly SSDI; the highest amount possible is $3,822.

3. How Long Does It Take to Get Your First SSDI Payment?

The waiting period is usually 5 months, so recipients could receive the first payment in about 6 months. However, the Social Security Administration only approves 1 in 5 initial claims. Working with an Idaho disability attorney can almost triple your chances of success within 6 months. These lawyers work on contingency, meaning you don’t pay legal fees unless your claim is successful.

Filing without an attorney usually means it takes much longer to process your application for Idaho disability benefits. In those cases, expect to wait at least 24 months for a decision letter from the SSA.

If your claim is denied, then you have 60 days to appeal. That first step is called a “request for reconsideration.”

4. How Long Can I Receive SSDI?

You must pass a disability update report every 3-7 years until age 67. After that, SSDI payments convert to regular Social Security retirement. But don’t worry! Your monthly payment always stays the same amount.

5. What About Healthcare?

On the 24th month after your first SSDI check, you automatically get access to Medicare coverage.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Idaho Disability Benefits

SSI benefits help low-income Americans who are blind, disabled, or over 65 who meet eligibility requirements. Here’s what residents need to know before filing application forms for SSI.

1. What Are the Age Requirements for SSI Benefits?

Any person at least 65 years old may be eligible based on age and income status. Younger Idaho residents (including children) with disabilities need a DDS exam to determine eligibility. Did you know an Idaho disability lawyer can pay for doctor visits and medical records if you can’t?

2. What Are the Financial Eligibility Rules for SSI Disability?

Gem Staters who want SSI benefits must have:

• Monthly income from wages and/or other sources less than $2,590 if you are blind and $1,550 if you have another disability. The SSA also counts child support, alimony, earned interest, SNAP, TANF, etc., as “monthly income.”
• Total resources under $2,000 ($3,000 for couples), including money in the bank and items you could sell, such as stocks and bonds, lottery tickets, etc. Your daily vehicle or wedding ring, the home you own, and other daily living items don’t count toward your resources limit.

3. How Much Does SSI Pay in Idaho Disability Benefits?

If approved, you will receive as much as $943 for an individual or $1415 for a couple. However, you could get more if Congress approves a COLA.

4. How Long Can I Get SSI Payments?

You must pass a disability update every 3-7 years. For those over 65, Idaho disability benefits continue as long as they meet SSI program financial requirements. Those younger than 65 determined ineligible no longer receive benefits.

5. What About Healthcare?

SSI claim approval gives you access to Medicaid coverage during the same month your first check goes through.

4 Methods to File for Idaho Disability Benefits with the Social Security Administration

1. Online at the SSA website. Important: You cannot apply for SSI benefits online, only SSDI.
2. In person at your nearest Social Security Administration field office. Plan to spend at least 4-5 hours filling out forms when you visit.
3. Over the telephone by calling 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 8am-7pm EST. You can also call this number to contact your local SSA office for an appointment.
4. For free with help from an Idaho disability benefits attorney. This option makes you far more likely to get your first check in 6 months or less.

How to Get Get Free Expert Help Filing for Idaho Disability Benefits

Did you know engaging an Idaho disability lawyer ups your chances of success by almost 3x?

Qualified Social Security attorneys don’t charge unless you win.

If you do win, then you pay only one small fee.

Why wait? See if you qualify now! Click below to start your free online benefits quiz and connect with expert help to answer you claim questions:

Get Your Free Benefits Evaluation