How to Apply for Disability Benefits in Ohio

Ohio residents unable to work due to illness or injury may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. In fact, more than 300,000 Ohioans with injuries or medical conditions receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. Learn how Ohio’s disability benefits program impacts Ohio residents and how to apply for disability benefits in the Buckeye State. 

Disability Benefits in Ohio

Ohio does not offer a statewide disability program. However, sick or injured Ohioans may qualify for Social Security benefits through the federal government or private insurance companies. As an Ohio resident, your options include:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): SSDI is geared toward those unable to work long-term due to disability, and offers monthly payments and Medicare. To qualify, you must have previously worked and paid taxes.

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): If you have a little-to-no work history, very little income, and few assets, you might be eligible for SSI, a similar federal program that pays monthly benefits and includes Medicaid.

• Veterans disability benefits: If you’re a veteran with an injury from military service that prevents you from working, consider receiving benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

• Private disability insurance: If you were covered by long-term or short-term disability insurance by an employer or private insurance company before your injury or illness began, check with your provider to see if you have access to disability benefits. 

SSDI vs. SSI: What’s the difference?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are both government programs that provide monthly payments and health insurance coverage to people who can’t work because of a non-work-related injury or illness. However, there are a few crucial differences:

• Work history: SSDI is for people who have worked at least five out of the last 10 years and have paid taxes into Social Security. SSI is for people with little to no work history and very low income and assets.

• Payment amounts: SSDI payments depend on the amount you paid into Social Security taxes. The maximum you can receive is $3,822 per month, though the average Ohio resident receives $1,665. The amount of SSI benefits you can get depends on your assets and income level - the maximum is capped at $943 per month though the average payout in Ohio is $625. 

• Healthcare: SSDI recipients get access to, while SSI beneficiaries receive Medicaid.

How to apply for Social Security disability in Ohio

There are three ways to apply for Social Security disability benefits in Ohio:

1. Online. Visit ssa.gov, click “Create Account,” and verify your identity. You can then download the application and fill it out before uploading and submitting it online.

2. Over the phone. You can call the SSA national number at 1-800-772-1213 or contact an office near you. 

3. In person. An agent at your local SSA office can help you complete your application. However, they are not allowed to provide legal advice. For more support, call Atticus to connect with a lawyer who can navigate you every step of the way.

How much are disability benefits in Ohio?

In 2024, the maximum monthly payment amount is $3,822 for SSDI and $943 for SSI. In Ohio, the average SSDI payment amount for disabled workers is $1,665 each month. The average payment for SSI beneficiaries is $625 per month.

Do I need a disability lawyer in Ohio?

You are not required to enlist the help of a lawyer to apply for disability benefits. However, you're three times more likely to win benefits if you do. Regardless of your state, working with a lawyer significantly increases the odds of winning your case. Working with a lawyer has several benefits:

• A lawyer will handle the paperwork for you. Your disability application must be error-free and comprehensive. A lawyer can help you collect your documents and fill out the paperwork correctly. 

• A lawyer will communicate with SSA on your behalf. Given their credentials, lawyers can access information that most people can't. For example, a lawyer can access the SSA's Electronic Records Express (ERE), which contains files related to your case. If they see any discrepancies, they can follow up with the SSA.

• A lawyer will help with the appeals process. It's normal to get denied the first time you apply for disability benefits. Most candidates then apply for reconsideration, which involves submitting paperwork in a timely manner, which a lawyer can help with. 

• A lawyer can represent you at a hearing. If your appeal is denied, you can request an in-person hearing. Your lawyer can argue your case at the hearing, and help you prepare for your day in court. 

Get help with your disability application in Ohio

The application process for disability benefits can be complicated, but Atticus can help. Take our quick 2-minute quiz to check your eligibility, and one of our team members will get in touch with you to offer you personalized advice about your case. 

We can connect you with a qualified disability lawyer who will guide you through the application process. There are no upfront costs to work with Atticus — you only pay your lawyer a one-time fee when they win your benefits. 

Related resources:

Ohio Disability Benefits

By Jackie Jakab

SSA Offices in Ohio

By Jackie Jakab