How to Apply for Disability Benefits in Illinois
Atticus offers free, high-quality disability advice for Americans who can't work. Our team of Stanford and Harvard-trained lawyers has a combined 15+ years of legal experience and has helped over 50,000 Americans apply for disability benefits.
If you're an Illinois resident with an injury or illness that prevents you from working, you could qualify for disability benefits. Federal programs can provide financial aid and healthcare, giving you the support you need. According to the Social Security Administration, in 2022, over 290,000 Illinoisans received support from disability programs.
This guide breaks down the support systems available in your state and how to apply for disability benefits.
Disability benefits in Illinois
While, like many states, Illinois does not have a state-specific disability program, residents can still qualify for federal benefits. Both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) offer monthly benefits, each with specific eligibility requirements.
What are the differences between SSDI and SSI?
While both SSDI and SSI can provide much-needed assistance through healthcare and monthly payments, these are two separate programs. Applicants can apply and qualify for one or both.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) eligibility is contingent on the number of “work credits” an individual earned by working and paying into Social Security. The benefit amount varies, depending on the individual’s earnings record. Typically to receive SSDI, an applicant must show they worked five of the last 10 years. SSDI recipients also qualify for Medicare after a 24-month qualifying period.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for individuals with disabilities or who are over 65 with limited income and resources. Since financial need is one of the requirements for SSI, applicants do not need a specific work history. In Illinois, SSI recipients may also qualify for Medicaid, but they will need to fill out a separate application.
How to apply for disability benefits in Illinois
There are three ways to apply for Social Security disability benefits in Illinois:
Online: The quickest and most convenient way to apply for Social Security disability benefits is online at SSA.gov. This option allows you to track the process of your claim.
Phone: You can also apply over the phone. Call your local Social Security office and a representative will take you through the application process.
In person: Visit your nearest SSA field office to apply in person. Making an appointment ahead of time ensures you receive one-on-one help.
SSA offices in Illinois
Whether you have a quick question or need help filling out your application, local SSA offices across Illinois are ready to help.
Alton 501 Belle St Rm 103 Federal Bldg Alton, IL 62002 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00AM - 4:00PM Phone Number: (855) 285-6006 Fax Number: (833) 950-3115 | Aurora 1325 N Lake St Aurora, IL 60506 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00AM - 4:00PM Phone Number: (877) 274-5412 Fax Number: (833) 950-3109 | Belleville 1670 Lebanon Ave Lake Christine Center Belleville, IL 62221 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00AM - 4:00PM Phone Number: (877) 405-0471 Fax Number: (833) 580-0167 |
Bloomingdale 230 West Lake St Bloomingdale, IL 60108 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00AM - 4:00PM Phone Number: (877) 845-1577 Fax Number: (833) 950-3451 | Bloomington 207 N Williamsburg Dr Bloomington, IL 61704 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00AM - 4:00PM Phone Number: (877) 405-4640 Fax Number: (833) 950-3107 | Carbondale 250 W Cherry St Rm 104 Carbondale, IL 62901 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00AM - 4:00PM Phone Number: (877) 714-0377 Fax Number: (833) 950-3441 |
Champaign 101 S Country Fair Dr Champaign, IL 61821 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00AM - 4:00PM Phone Number: (877) 819-2593 Fax Number: (833) 950-2810 | Chicago 2127 W Lawrence Ave Chicago, IL 60625 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00AM - 4:00PM Phone Number: (877) 409-8426 Fax Number: (833) 950-2806 |
Do I need a disability attorney in Illinois?
While it's not mandatory to have a lawyer when applying for disability benefits, it can be useful. Legal representation can significantly streamline your application process, and your chances of approval will be three times greater.
3 benefits of working with a disability lawyer
Assistance with paperwork: The application for disability benefits can be daunting. It requires a lot of paperwork, and a lawyer can help you gather necessary documentation and ensure you have filled out all forms accurately.
Communication with the SSA: Your lawyer will handle all communication with the Social Security Administration on your behalf. They will respond to requests for additional information, clarify the specifics of your medical condition, and make sure all correspondence is timely and clear.
Higher likelihood of success: Applicants with legal counsel have a much higher success rate in receiving disability benefits. A lawyer's understanding of the legal system and experience with disability cases can make all the difference in the outcome of your claim.
Frequently asked questions about benefits in Illinois
How do I qualify for disability in Illinois?
To qualify for disability you need to have a condition that prevents you from working for at least a year. You’ll also need to meet certain work history requirements (for SSDI) or be within certain income limits (for SSI). For more on these requirements, read our full write up here.
What conditions qualify for disability in Illinois?
Any condition that will prevent you from working for a year or more can qualify for disability benefits. Some of the most common conditions include musculoskeletal disorders, mental disorders, nervous system diseases, and circulatory system diseases. See our full list of conditions that qualify here.
How long does it take to get approved for disability in Illinois?
It takes an average of 6.1 months to get an initial disability decision in Illinois. Most people who apply are initially rejected, and need to appeal this decision. If you appeal and go to a hearing, the process takes around two years on average. Read more: How Long It Takes to Get Approved for Disability Benefits
How much does disability pay in Illinois?
The average SSDI payment in Illinois is $1,413.31 per month. The average SSI payment is $651.63 per month. What you’ll earn is dependent on your income, or the amount you’ve historically paid into the Social Security program. Read more on what amount you can expect.
How should I prepare my disability application in Illinois?
Answer the application questions truthfully, consistently, and succinctly. You should also ensure that you gather and submit all your medical records with your application. The SSA paperwork can be complicated, so our legal team has written a full guide to the application here.
Does Illinois have a state disability program?
No, Illinois doesn't have a state disability program. Only five states (California, Hawaii, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island) have a state program. Residents of Illinois can apply for federal disability programs (SSDI and SSI). Read more about SSDI and SSI here.
Related resources:
Illinois Disability Benefits
SSA Offices in Illinois
How long has your condition made it hard to work?
Jackie Jakab
Lead Attorney
For Clients
For Lawyers
At the bottom of many websites, you'll find a small disclaimer: "We are not a law firm and are not qualified to give legal advice." If you see this, run the other way. These people can't help you: they're prohibited by law from giving meaningful advice, recommending specific lawyers, or even telling you whether you need a lawyer at all.
There’s no disclaimer here: Atticus is a law firm, and we are qualified to give legal advice. We can answer your most pressing questions, make clear recommendations, and search far and wide to find the right lawyer for you.
Two important things to note: If we give you legal advice, it will be through a lawyer on our staff communicating with you directly. (Don't make important decisions about your case based solely on this or any other website.) And if we take you on as a client, it will be through a document you sign. (No attorney-client relationship arises from using this site or calling us.)
- © 2024 Atticus Law, P.C.
Terms | Privacy | California Privacy | Disclaimer | This website is lawyer advertising.