Disability Determination
What is the Disability Determination program?
Disability Determination Services (DDS) determines medical eligibility for Missourians who have filed for disability benefits with the Social Security Administration (SSA). SSA manages two programs that award benefits because of disability or blindness. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or Title II, provides benefits for individuals who are disabled or blind and are "insured" based on the Social Security tax they paid on their earnings or the earnings of their spouse or parents. Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Title XVI, provides payments to individuals that are disabled or blind, including children under age 18, who have limited income and resources. Once a disability benefits claim has been filed with SSA, it will be forwarded to DDS, a state agency, under the Missouri Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Regulated and fully funded by the federal government, DDS decides whether or not a claimant’s medical condition is considered a disability under Social Security law. To document the medical conditions of individuals, who have filed disability claims, DDS contacts doctors, hospitals, schools, employers, and other sources to obtain medical records and functional information.
Sometimes, an independent exam is necessary in determining disability eligibility. Using this medical information, along with the person's age, education, and past work experience, DDS will make a recommendation as to whether the individual's condition meets SSA’s medical requirements. SSA will then determine whether the individual meets the non-medical standards.
The Social Security Disability program provides economic security to many Missouri citizens who are unable to work due to a disability. During December 2006, 277,912 Missourians received $282,707,000.00 in SSDI/SSI benefits.
How to Apply for Benefits
To apply for Social Security disability benefits or for additional information, call the Social Security Administration toll free at (800) 772-1213 or (800) 325-0778 TTY, or visit SSA's Web site at http://www.ssa.gov/d&s1.htm
You can also file a claim at your local Social Security office. To find the location of the office nearest you, go to https://s044a90.ssa.gov/apps6z/FOLO/fo001.jsp