The Ultimate Guide to Social Security Disability in Connecticut (2025)
Welcome from James F. Aspell, P.C.
At James F. Aspell, P.C., we've helped countless Connecticut residents secure the Social Security Disability benefits they've earned. Whether you're just beginning the process or facing a frustrating denial, this guide will help you understand how Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) work in 2025—and how our firm can assist you every step of the way.
Understanding the Two Types of Disability Benefits
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI is designed for people who have worked and paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes, but can no longer work due to a disabling condition.
Key facts in 2025:
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Work Credits: You need enough credits based on your age. Most adults need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years. In 2025, you earn 1 credit for each $1,810 in wages, up to 4 per year.
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Definition of Disability: The condition must prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a needs-based program for disabled individuals with limited income and assets, regardless of work history.
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Federal Benefit Rate in 2025: $967/month for individuals; $1,450 for couples.
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Resource Limits: $2,000 for individuals; $3,000 for couples (excluding essentials like your home or car).
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Connecticut Supplements: Connecticut may add a state-funded supplement to your monthly benefit.
If you're unsure which program you qualify for, our Connecticut Social Security Disability lawyers can review your case during a free consultation.
Who Qualifies for Social Security Disability in Connecticut?
To qualify for SSDI or SSI, you must meet medical, financial, and sometimes work history requirements.
Medical Eligibility
In both programs, your disability must:
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Prevent you from working or performing any substantial gainful activity.
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Be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
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Be included in, or medically equal to, one of the conditions in the SSA's Listing of Impairments.
In 2025, the monthly SGA threshold is $1,620 for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals.
Common qualifying conditions include:
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Chronic back disorders
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Traumatic brain injury
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Severe depression or anxiety
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Cardiovascular disease
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Cancer
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Neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis
If you're struggling with conditions like back injuries or spinal fusion recovery, we can guide you through qualifying.
Work History Requirement (SSDI Only)
To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked and contributed to the Social Security system.
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Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.
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The “recent work” test usually requires you to have worked five of the last ten years.
How to Apply for Disability Benefits in Connecticut
Step 1: Gather Your Records
You'll need:
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Social Security number and proof of age
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Medical evidence: records, tests, and doctor contact information
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List of medications
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Summary of work history and education
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Most recent tax returns or pay stubs
Step 2: Apply
There are three ways to apply:
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Online: ssa.gov
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Phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213
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In Person: Visit your local Social Security office. The Hartford SSA office services many of our clients.
Our team can assist you with the application process to ensure accuracy and completeness, which significantly improves your chances of approval.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once your application is submitted:
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SSA Reviews Your File for basic eligibility.
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Connecticut's Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews medical evidence to decide if you meet disability criteria.
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A decision is typically issued within 3 to 6 months.
If you are denied, don't panic. Most initial applications are denied—but we can help you appeal.
Need help appealing a denial? Visit our guide on Social Security Disability appeals in Connecticut.
Appeals Process: What If You're Denied?
The appeals process includes four levels:
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Reconsideration
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Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
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Appeals Council Review
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Federal Court Review
Most successful cases are won at the hearing level. That's where representation from James F. Aspell, P.C. makes all the difference. We prepare your evidence, work with your doctors, and represent you before the judge.
2025 Benefit Amounts and Payment Schedule
SSDI Payments
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Maximum monthly SSDI benefit in 2025: $4,018
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Average benefit: Approximately $1,537 per month
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Payment is based on your past earnings and work record
SSI Payments
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$967 for individuals
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$1,450 for couples
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Additional Connecticut state supplement may apply
Payment Dates
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SSDI is paid monthly on a Wednesday based on your birthday:
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1st–10th: Second Wednesday
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11th–20th: Third Wednesday
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21st–31st: Fourth Wednesday
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SSI is typically paid on the first of the month. If that falls on a weekend or holiday, you'll be paid on the last business day of the prior month.
New Developments for 2025
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
The 2025 COLA increase is 2.5%, raising monthly SSDI and SSI payments to account for inflation.
Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO)
The Social Security Fairness Act was passed, eliminating WEP and GPO for many public-sector workers. This is especially impactful in Connecticut, where teachers and state workers may now receive full SSDI or spousal benefits.
Why Choose James F. Aspell, P.C. for Your SSD Claim?
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Decades of Experience representing Connecticut's disabled workers
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Local Knowledge of Hartford-area DDS offices and SSA procedures
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Personal Attention from start to finish—we don't pass you off to a call center
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Free Initial Consultations and no fees unless we win your case
We also assist clients whose disability overlaps with a work injury. If your condition began on the job, we can coordinate your workers' compensation and SSD benefits for the best outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while receiving SSDI?
Yes, but there are earnings limits. The Trial Work Period (TWP) allows you to test working without losing benefits. In 2025, you can earn up to $1,110/month during this trial.
How long does the process take?
Initial claims can take 3–6 months. If you need to appeal, it can take 12–18 months to reach a hearing.
Can I get both workers' comp and SSDI?
Yes, but your SSDI benefits may be reduced. We can structure your settlement to minimize offsets.
Need Help With Your Disability Claim?
At James F. Aspell, P.C., we help Connecticut residents navigate Social Security Disability with experience, skill, and compassion. Whether you're filing your first application or appealing a denial, we're ready to fight for you.
Contact Us Today
📍 Serving Hartford, Farmington, and all of Connecticut
📞 Call 860-523-8783
📩 Contact us online for your free consultation
Let us take the pressure off so you can focus on what matters most—your health and peace of mind.
