How Much Do You Get for Disability in Rhode Island?
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 a Rhode Island resident who’s unable to work due to a disability, you have access to multiple programs that offer financial support. As of 2024, approximately 38,000 Rhode Islanders receive Social Security disability benefits.
Read on for a breakdown of the disability benefit options available in Rhode Island, including the federal Social Security programs and the state's Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI).
How much are TDI benefits in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island's Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) program provides short-term benefits for workers who cannot work due to non-work-related injuries or illnesses. As of July 1, 2024, the maximum weekly benefit is $1,070, and the minimum is $130.
How much are Social Security disability benefits in Rhode Island?
Social Security offers two disability programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
In 2024, the maximum SSDI benefit is $3,822 per month, and the maximum SSI benefit is $943, or $1,415 for couples. However, the amount you will receive depends on various factors, like your work history and average lifetime earnings.
The average monthly SSDI payment in Rhode Island is $1,729, while the average monthly federal SSI payment is $605.
Calculating Social Security Disability Insurance in Rhode Island
SSDI benefits are based on your average lifetime earnings before your disability began. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a complex formula to calculate your benefit amount. While the maximum SSDI benefit in 2024 is $3,822 per month, the actual amount you receive will likely be lower and depends on your work history.
The SSA calculates your benefit using the following steps:
Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME): The SSA adjusts your earnings for inflation and averages your highest-earning 35 years. If you worked fewer than 35 years, the SSA will use zeros for the missing years, which can lower your AIME.
Primary Insurance Amount (PIA): The SSA then uses your AIME to calculate your PIA, which determines the amount you will receive.
Adjustments: The SSA may adjust your PIA based on factors like early retirement or delayed retirement credits if you’re over full retirement age.
It's important to note that your SSDI benefit is also subject to annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) to keep pace with inflation. If you receive certain other government benefits, like workers’ compensation, the SSA may reduce your SSDI payment.
Calculating Supplemental Security Income in Rhode Island
SSI is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources. To be eligible to receive benefits, your assets must be less than $2,000 if you’re single or less than $3,000 if you’re married.
The maximum federal SSI payment for individuals in 2024 is $943 per month. However, your actual benefit may be lower if you have other sources of income or receive support for your food and shelter expenses.
Disability in Rhode Island pay table
Your exact payment amount depends on several factors, including your employment history and your condition's severity. Here are the average and maximum payment amounts:
SSDI | SSI | TDI | |
|---|---|---|---|
Average payment | $1,729/month | $605/month | $130/weekly at minimum |
Maximum payment | $3,822/month | $943/month | $1,070/weekly |
Duration of program | As long as you remain disabled | As long as you meet the eligibility criteria | Up to 30 weeks per year |
Get help applying for disability benefits in Rhode Island
Navigating the disability application process can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. Take our quick two-minute assessment to evaluate your eligibility and connect with our team of experts. At Atticus, we can provide guidance throughout your application process and connect you with a qualified disability lawyer in Rhode Island. Our services come at no upfront cost—you only pay a one-time fee to your lawyer after they secure your benefits.
Frequently asked questions about benefits in Rhode Island
What qualifies you for disability in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
It takes an average of 7-8 months to get an initial disability decision in Rhode Island. Most people who apply are initially rejected and need to appeal this decision. If you appeal and go to a hearing, the process takes just over two years on average. Read more: Why It Takes so Long to Get Approved for Disability Benefits
How much does disability pay in Rhode Island?
The average SSDI payment in Rhode Island is $1,729.33 per month. The average SSI payment is $605.11 per month. What you’ll earn depends 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 Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island have a state disability program?
Yes, Rhode Island is one of the five states with its own state disability program. Residents of Rhode Island can apply for temporary disability benefits (TDI) that offer up to 30 weeks of payments. Work injuries aren’t covered, though. If your injury will keep you out of work longer, you can still apply for SSDI and SSI.
Related resources:
Rhode Island Disability Benefits: How to Qualify, Apply, and Get Approved
Everything You Should Know About Disability Benefits (SSDI and SSI)
How long has your condition made it hard to work?
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