
Filing for disability in Kentucky The disability application process should begin with a call to a local Social Security office. As opposed to filing online, when claims are handled with a local office, the claimant will have the opportunity to ask questions to the SSA
Social Security Administration
The United States Social Security Administration is an independent agency of the U.S. federal government that administers Social Security, a social insurance program consisting of retirement, disability, and survivors' benefits. To qualify for most of these benefits, most workers pay Social …
Full Answer
How long does it take to get disability in Kentucky?
The SSDI program takes about 3-5 months to process each Kentucky disability claim. Federal law requires a five-month waiting period before anyone can get SSDI payments after their claim’s approved. If you wait that long before you apply, you can skip this mandatory wait period.
Can I get temporary disability in KY?
This medical condition must be certified by a medical professional. In Kentucky, short term disability insurance is not guaranteed, and there are no laws protecting employees with short term disabilities. However, there are federal protections and other benefits that an employee can use if he is temporarily disabled.
How much does disability pay in Kentucky?
The maximum disability amount for 2019 is $2861.00 per month. On the other hand, if you live in Kentucky and you are eligible for the need based SSI disability program, there is a set maximum benefit of $771.00 for a single person and $1157.00 for a couple both entitled to SSI.
What are the top 10 conditions that qualify for disability?
- Phenylketonuria (PKU)
- Other inborn errors of metabolism not specified elsewhere that are treated by medically prescribed diet to prevent neurological disability and/or severe organ damage. ...
- Cystic Fibrosis.

What qualifies for disability in KY?
Adult Definition - Social Security defines disability as the inability to work due to a physical or mental impairment(s) which has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. Inability to work includes not only work performed previously, but any kind of work.
How do I apply for disability in the state of Kentucky?
Individuals are able to apply online through the SSA's website at ssa.gov, apply over the telephone by calling the SSA's customer service line at 1-800-772-1213, or apply in-person at their local Social Security office. This page covers information and resources regarding Social Security Disability in Kentucky.
How much do you get for disability in Kentucky?
Approximately 950,000 Kentucky residents receive some form of Social Security benefits. The average monthly benefits that a disabled worker in Kentucky receives are $805 for a single person and $1,200 for a disabled worker who is married and has 1 or 2 children.
What conditions are automatically approved for disability?
What Conditions Automatically Qualify You for Disability?Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., bone, joint injuries, skeletal spine injuries)Special senses and speech (e.g., visual disorders, blindness)Respiratory disorders (e.g., chronic bronchitis, emphysema, asthma)More items...
How difficult is it to get disability in Kentucky?
It can be fairly difficult to win and get disability benefits in Kentucky or any state. The process is equally hard regardless of state because SSDI and SSI are federal programs.
How long does it take to get approved for disability in Kentucky?
Generally, it takes about 3 to 5 months to get a decision. However, the exact time depends on how long it takes to get your medical records and any other evidence needed to make a decision. * How does Social Security make the decision? We send your application to a state agency that makes disability decisions.
What are the 3 most common physical disabilities?
Here are three of the most common physical disabilities we see.Arthritis and Other Musculoskeletal Disorders. According to the Mayo Clinic, arthritis is inflammation and tenderness in one or more joints. ... Cerebral Palsy. ... Spinal Cord Injuries.
How much is SSI a month in Kentucky?
How Much Are SSI Benefits in Kentucky? The maximum federal SSI payment as of 2019 is $771 a month for a person, and $1,157 a month for a couple.
What is considered to be a disability?
The ADA defines a person with a disability as a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity. This includes people who have a record of such an impairment, even if they do not currently have a disability.
What is the most approved disability?
1. Arthritis. Arthritis and other musculoskeletal disabilities are the most commonly approved conditions for disability benefits. If you are unable to walk due to arthritis, or unable to perform dexterous movements like typing or writing, you will qualify.
What are 4 hidden disabilities?
The four most common types of hidden disabilities are:Autoimmune Diseases. In most people, the body's immune system protects them from invaders like bacteria and viruses. ... Mental Health Conditions. ... Neurological Disorders. ... Chronic Pain and Fatigue Disorders.
What are the top 10 disabilities?
What Are the Top 10 Disabilities?Nervous System and Sense Organs. ... Intellectual Disabilities. ... Circulatory System. ... Schizophrenic and Other Psychotic Disorders. ... Other Mental Disorders. ... Injuries. ... Organic Mental Disorders. ... Neoplasms. Finally, the 10th top disability comes from neoplasms.More items...
Why is it important to process disability claims electronically?
Some benefits of processing claims electronically include: Disability decisions are processed in a more timely manner. More cost effective processing enables more than one individual in the determination process to simultaneously view and work a case.
What is disability determination services?
Disability Determination Services makes disability determinations on behalf of the commissioner of Social Security for residents of Kentucky. The program uses federal regulations to determine disability for both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Income (SSDI). The program also adheres to federal regulations for performance accuracy and processing time standards.
How long does disability last?
Adult Definition - Social Security defines disability as the inability to work due to a physical or mental impairment (s) which has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. Inability to work includes not only work performed previously, but any kind of work.
What is SSI for blind people?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monetary and medical benefits to adults and children who are blind or disabled and who have also met the non-disability income and resources requirements.
Does Social Security pay for disability?
Each program has its own requirements for determining disability. For example, some programs may pay for partial or short-term disability. Social Security does not .
Does the SSI program determine technical eligibility?
The program does not determine technical eligibility for SSI or SSDI. Technical eligibility is determined by the local Social Security office based on credits earned by working for SSDI and income and asset levels for SSI.
What is the Kentucky disability program?
There’s another federal program that provides Kentucky disability benefits. It’s called SSI. SSI is designed to help only the poorest Americans who are blind, disabled or aged 65 and older. Any Kentucky disability benefits you get through the SSI program come out of the general tax fund.
What is SSDI in Kentucky?
SSDI is a federal disability insurance program that American workers pay premiums for with every paycheck. If you work full-time in jobs that withhold FICA or Social Security taxes, then you’re covered! Congress created this program specifically to help working-age Americans tap into Social Security money before they’re old enough to retire. The program originally went into effect in January of 1956. Since then, it’s helped tens of millions of Americans who became too disabled to keep working make ends meet. Learn all about getting Kentucky disability benefits through the SSDI program below.
How long does Kentucky disability last?
Once your checks start, the SSA requires you to pass another disability update every 3-7 years. If you can’t do that, they’ll suspend your Kentucky disability payments. You only need to pass these SSDI disability updates regularly until you reach your FRA. After that, Kentucky disability automatically converts into regular Social Security retirement benefits. Your monthly amount stays the same, and you don’t have to fill out any more paperwork.
How much does Kentucky pay for SSDI?
The highest Kentucky disability payment the SSDI program pays anyone is $3,011/month. But your disability payment depends entirely on how much money you earned while working. To get SSDI payments in the $2800 range, you need to earn $128,000-$132,000 annually for several years first. On average, disabled workers in every U.S. state receive about $1,258 in SSDI each month. Your Kentucky disability payment amount should equal 40% of your average monthly paycheck earned over a 35-year work history. In certain years, your SSDI payments may go up due to an annual cost-of-living-adjustment (COLA) increase.
How to double your chances of getting disability in Kentucky?
To double your chances for getting Kentucky disability the first time you apply, have a lawyer file your SSDI claim. All Kentucky disability lawyers work on contingency. That means you won’t pay any legal fees unless the SSA approves you for benefits.
How long does it take to get a disability check in Kentucky?
Six months after your SSDI application date is the soonest you’ll get your first Kentucky disability check. The SSDI program takes about 3-5 months to process each Kentucky disability claim. Federal law requires a five-month waiting period before anyone can get SSDI payments after their claim’s approved.
Do disability lawyers in Kentucky charge a fee?
A qualified Social Security attorney charges $0 if you don’t win benefits. And if you do win, you’ll only pay a small, one-time fee.
How long does it take to get approved for disability in Kentucky?
The highest chance for approval is at the hearing level, at which 53.4 percent of claims being approved when they reach the administrative law hearing level and a judge rules on the claim. Currently, it takes an average of 16 months to get a hearing date set when your claim advances to that level.
How many disability claims are denied in Kentucky?
Since 71% of disability claims in Kentucky are denied during the initial review, 71% are denied and you must ask for the claim to advance to the next level, so you do not have to start the claims process all over. During the reconsideration process, only 8% percent of claims are approved in Kentucky compared to 13% nationally.
What is a disability attorney?
A disability attorney may be a real asset to your disability claim. A lawyer can be familiar with the process and can review your file to determine if you need additional medical records or if your physician should include additional details that confirms the severity of your condition. An attorney can make sure your claim packet is completed in detail and accurately and will make sure all the medical records to support your claim have been included in your file for review.
How to file for disability in Kentucky?
When filing for disability in Kentucky, you’ll have to provide certain documents to prove you are eligible for benefits. Having these prepared can help expedite the lengthy process. The documents you may need to provide include: 1 A birth certificate 2 Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful immigrant status 3 Discharge papers from the United States military, if you served prior to 1968 4 W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns for the previous year 5 An Adult Disability Report to provide more details about your condition, as well as your work history 6 Medical records, such as doctors’ reports and test results 7 Proof of workers’ compensation benefits such as settlement agreements or pay stubs
How long do you have to work to be considered disabled?
You must also be unable to work for at least one year, or your condition is expected to end in death.
What happens if the DDS finds you disabled?
If the DDS finds in their evaluation that you are disabled, the SSA will complete the non-disability development if it is outstanding, calculate the amount of benefits you are to receive, and begin paying you those benefits.
What happens if your disability is denied?
If, after reconsideration, your application is still denied, you can take your case to the next phase of the appeals process, which is the hearing. The hearing takes place in front of an administrative law judge (ALJ). The ALJ will hear testimony from expert witnesses, and you will also have a chance to speak about your disability.
How does the SSA notify you of a decision?
When the SSA makes a decision on your application, they will send you a notice in the mail to notify you of their decision . If you have been denied, the SSA will tell you why they denied your application. The notice will also tell you how long you have to appeal the decision, if you choose to do so.
What is an adult disability report?
An Adult Disability Report to provide more details about your condition, as well as your work history. Medical records, such as doctors’ reports and test results. Proof of workers’ compensation benefits such as settlement agreements or pay stubs.
Can medical experts testify on disability?
Medical experts can provide further information about your disability, and vocational experts may testify on certain jobs you could still perform. The ALJ will also ask you questions about your disability. In most cases, they will ask you if you would like to make any additional comments.
What to do if you receive a Social Security disability?
If you have been awarded Social Security disability or received a Workers' Compensation settlement, you should submit to KPPA a copy of the original award letter from Social Security or the Workers' Compensation settlement signed by the Administrative Law Judge.
What happens if a person fails to disclose disability to KPPA?
If a person receiving disability benefits fails to disclose to KPPA any employment after retirement, KPPA may recover benefits paid to , or on behalf of, the person during the period of employment. Individuals receiving disability retirement benefits are also subject to the provisions of employment after retirement discussed in ...
What happens if you receive KPPA?
If a person receiving disability retirement benefits from KPPA applies for Social Security disability and/or Workers’ Compensation, the disability benefits from KPPA may be reduced if the combined income from KPPA, Social Security, and Workers’ Compensation exceeds 100% of the member’s final rate of pay or final compensation, whichever is greater. If you have been awarded Social Security disability or received a Workers' Compensation settlement, you should submit to KPPA a copy of the original award letter from Social Security or the Workers' Compensation settlement signed by the Administrative Law Judge.
Who must provide KPPA with a detailed job description of the intended position?
A person receiving disability retirement benefits who contemplates reemployment must provide KPPA with a detailed job description of the intended position, which must be completed by the employer.
What is the disability program in Kentucky?
Any benefits provided by these programs is in addition to other local, state, or federal government low income assistance programs. A number of agencies, departments, and government organizations in Kentucky oversee these benefits ...
What is the phone number for Kentucky vocational rehabilitation?
The agency relies on family involvement and support in order for these benefits to be provided to the individual in question. Call (502) 564-4527. Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation help those with disabilities to gain suitable employment and independence.
What is the number for the Department of Aging and Independent Living?
To learn more on these or other programs, call Department for Aging and Independent Living. The main number is (502) 564-6930.
What is the phone number for Disability Resource Center?
Toll-free (800) 232-1160. Department for Aging and Independent Living, or DAIL, also offers disability assistance. After all, this non-profit organization also oversees the Disability Resource Center Program. Some of the services provided include nutrition counseling, health screening and education services.
What is the priority for disability?
The priority is usually on satisfying basic needs first, such as food, housing, and health care. Then other programs can help them obtain employment and self- sufficiency. For people applying for benefits, the state’s Disability Determination Services will make determinations on their application.
Is guardianship available in Kentucky?
Guardianship is available across Kentucky. A court-appointed party assumes the responsibility of guardian for a person declared legally disabled. The Hart-Supported Living can offer financial aid and funding to disabled Kentuckians .
What are the Eligibility Requirements for Disability Retirement?
You must have 60 months of service credit. This requirement is waived for a member suffering a duty-related injury (nonhazardous members) or an in-line-of-duty injury (hazardous members) as explained below.
What is A Duty-Related Injury?
A duty-related injury is a single traumatic event that occurs while the employee is performing the duties of his position; or a single act of violence committed against the employee that is found to be related to his job duties, whether or not it occurs at his job site.
What if I am A Hazardous Duty Employee?
Hazardous disability means a disability which results in an employee’s total incapacity to continue as an employee in a hazardous position, but the employee is not necessarily deemed to be totally and permanently disabled to engage in other occupations for remuneration or profit.
What are In Line of Duty Benefits?
In Line of Duty disability is a hazardous disability or a total and permanent disability that is the direct result of an act in the line of duty. An act in the line of duty is an act occurring or a thing done which was required in the performance of the specified duties.

Mission Statement
- Disability Determination Services makes disability determinations on behalf of the commissioner of Social Security for residents of Kentucky. The program uses federal regulations to determine disability for both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Income (SSDI). The program also adheres to federal regulations for performance accuracy and processi…
Vision Statement
- To be recognized as a national leader in providing caring, compassionate and legally sound disability services by: 1. Recruiting, empowering and retaining a highly skilled and diverse workforce 2. Providing an environment in which employees are recognized as individuals and valued for their contributions 3. Increasing the use of technology to maximize efficiency and eff…
Electronic Claims Processing
- The Kentucky DDS processes the majority of claims electronically. Some benefits of processing claims electronically include: 1. Disability decisions are processed in a more timely manner 2. More cost effective processing enables more than one individual in the determination process to simultaneously view and work a case
Explanation of Disability
- Many types of disability programs are administered by the state and federal governments. Each program has its own requirements for determining disability. For example, some programs may pay for partial or short-term disability. Social Security does not. Adult Definition- Social Security defines disability as the inability to work due to a physical or mental impairment(s) which has la…
Types of Social Security Disability Programs
- The following programs may be available to people who have been determined to have a disability: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Social Security Disability Insurance provides monetary and medical benefits for people found to be disabled who have also met the non-disability requirements of contributing to the Social Security Trust Fund through taxes on their e…
How Are Disability Decisions Made?
- If you apply for coverage under Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid, your claim will first be reviewed by the Social Security Administration to determine if non-disability eligibility requirements are met. If so, your application is then sent to Disability Determination Services (DDS). 1. DDS collects medical evidence from your doctors, cli…
Medical Review
- The Medical Review Team is located at the Disability Determination Services office. Medical Review Team members are responsible for determining medical eligibility for two state public assistance programs: KTAP (Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program) Incapacity and Medicaid-only disability claims. Applications for these benefits programs are filed though the lo…