How to Apply for Disability Benefits in Rhode Island

Navigating the world of disability benefits can feel daunting, but you’re not alone. In Rhode Island, nearly 38,000 people have successfully secured disability assistance. Understanding your options is crucial whether you're dealing with a temporary setback or a long-term condition.

Rhode Island is one of the few states that offer temporary disability benefits in addition to federal Social Security disability programs. Read on to learn about these various disability options and how to apply for them.

Does Rhode Island have state disability benefits?

Yes, Rhode Island offers a state-specific program called Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). This program provides short-term benefits to workers who are unable to work due to a non-work-related illness or injury.

How to qualify for Rhode Island TDI

To be eligible for Rhode Island's Temporary Disability Insurance, you must meet the following criteria:

• Your illness or injury must be non-work-related. You may be eligible for workers' compensation if your condition is work-related.

• You must meet Rhode Island's work history requirements. For claims filed in 2024, you must have earned at least $16,800 in your base period, which consists of the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before your claim starts.

If you don't meet the $16,800 requirement, you may still qualify if you meet all of these conditions:

• You earned at least $2,800 in one of your base period quarters.

• Your total base period taxable wages are at least 1.5 times your highest quarter of earnings.

• Your base period taxable wages equal at least $5,600.

How are Rhode Island TDI benefits calculated?

If Rhode Island approves you for TDI benefits, the state determines your weekly benefit rate to be 4.62% of your wages in the highest quarter of your base period. In 2024, the maximum weekly benefit amount is $1,070, and the minimum is $130. 

If you have dependents, you may receive an additional allowance: either $10 or 7% of your benefit rate (whichever is greater) for up to five dependents. 

The maximum duration for TDI benefits is 30 weeks. You must file your TDI claim within 90 days of the first week you're out of work due to illness or injury.

How to apply for Social Security disability in Rhode Island

In addition to Rhode Island's TDI program, residents can also access two federal disability programs:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): The Social Security Administration (SSA) designed Social Security Disability Insurance for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but are now unable to work due to a disability. To qualify, you must have enough work credits (typically earned by working at least five of the last 10 years) and a medical condition that meets the SSA’s definition of disability.

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Supplemental Security Income is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or 65 or older. Unlike SSDI, SSI doesn't require a work history.

To apply for SSDI or SSI in Rhode Island, you have several options:

• Online: You can apply online at any time at SSA.gov. 

• By phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to apply over the phone.

• In-person: Visit your local Social Security office. We recommend making an appointment ahead of time.

SSA offices in Rhode Island

A claims representative at a regional field office can answer your questions about the disability application. There are five SSA office locations in Rhode Island:

Do I need a disability lawyer in Rhode Island?

While it's not mandatory to have a lawyer when you’re applying for disability benefits in Rhode Island, having legal representation can improve your chances of approval significantly. A disability lawyer can:

• Help you complete your application accurately.

• Gather and organize necessary medical evidence.

• Represent you during appeals if the SSA denies your initial application.

• Prepare you for disability hearings.

• Ensure you meet all deadlines throughout the process.

Statistically, applicants with legal representation are three times more likely to receive approval for disability benefits, especially at the hearing level. If you’re considering getting help, note that most disability lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only collect a payment if you win your case.

Get help applying for benefits in Rhode Island

If you’re a Rhode Island resident considering applying for disability benefits, we're here to help. Take our quick two-minute assessment to evaluate your eligibility and get in touch with our team.

At Atticus, we can provide guidance throughout your application process and connect you with a qualified disability lawyer. Our services come at no upfront cost to you—Atticus lawyers only charge fees if they win your case.

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Related resources:

Rhode Island Disability Benefits: How to Qualify, Apply, and Get Approved

By Jackie Jakab

Everything You Should Know About Disability Benefits (SSDI and SSI)

By Sarah Aitchison