Benefits for People with Disabilities

Published by Thomas Murphy on

Hello, my name is Thomas Murphy. Based in Ridgewood, New Jersey my practice specializes in Social Security Disability , Employee Benefits, and Conventional Life Insurance. With over 35 years of expertise, I have grassroots experience with all Insurance/Disability related issues. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to email or call me at 201-321-3031 to learn more. In the meantime, please read below to learn more about your right to collect Social Security Disability if you are hurt or injured.

The following article was taken from the Social Security Website: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/

The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs are the largest of several Federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities. While these two programs are different in many ways, both are administered by the Social Security Administration and only individuals who have a disability and meet medical criteria may qualify for benefits under either program.

Social Security Disability Insurance pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you are “insured,” meaning that you worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes.

Supplemental Security Income pays benefits based on financial need.


When you apply for either program, we will collect medical and other information from you and make a decision about whether or not you meet Social Security’s definition of disability. Periodically, we will need updated information about your condition.  You may receive a Disability Update Report (SSA-455).  This form can now be completed online.

Use the Benefits Eligibility Screening Tool to find out which programs may be able to pay you benefits.

If your application has recently been denied, the Internet Appeal is a starting point to request a review of our decision about your eligibility for disability benefits.

If your application is denied for:

  • Medical reasons, you can complete and submit the required Appeal Request and Appeal Disability Report online.

    The disability report asks you for updated information about your medical condition and any treatment, tests or doctor visits since we made our decision.

  • Non-medical reasons, you should contact your local Social Security Office to request the review. You also may call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, to request an appeal. People who are deaf or hard of hearing can call our toll-free TTY number, 1-800-325-0778.
Categories: Insurance