Disabilities can make working and earning an income difficult or even impossible. If you’re an Oklahoma resident unable to work due to a medical condition, you may qualify for financial assistance through disability benefits programs. This guide will explain Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), workers’ compensation, and other disability benefits available in Oklahoma. We’ll also look at how you can bundle these and employment assistance programs with FREE wireless service from EASY Wireless to maximize savings.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Benefits for Disabled Oklahoma Workers
SSDI provides monthly income to disabled individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes long enough to qualify. To receive Social Security disability benefits in Oklahoma, you must:
- Have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s strict disability criteria – it must prevent working for at least 12 months or be terminal.
- Have earned enough work credits through eligible employment – generally, you need 40 credits total, with 20 earned in the last decade.
Apply at the Disability Determination Services Office
Disability Determination Services (DDS) offices are state agencies that make disability decisions for Social Security. They are funded by the federal government and work with the Social Security administration to process applications for two main disability programs:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
The DDS office will receive your initial disability application from Social Security after you apply. Disability examiners and physicians at the DDS office then review your medical records and other medical evidence to decide if you meet the criteria for disability under Social Security rules.
They do not consider your work history or non-medical eligibility factors – they solely determine if you have a qualifying medical disability based on SSA criteria. DDS offices issue the medical decision on disability claims, though Social Security makes the final medical eligibility determination anyway. Most states have a central DDS office, with Oklahoma’s located in Oklahoma City.
Reach Out to Your Doctor
You’ll also need extensive medical documentation from your doctors and treatment providers to prove your disability.
SSDI pays monthly based on your prior average earnings, with the expected average recipient in Oklahoma getting $800 to $1,800 per month. If approved, you’ll also qualify for Medicare after 24 months.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Disabled Oklahomans with Limited Income
SSI assists disabled, blind, or elderly Oklahoma residents with minimal income and assets. It does not require work credits. To qualify for SSI, you must:
- Have a qualifying disability, blindness, or be 65+.
- Have limited resources – savings under $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples. Income must be under maximum thresholds.
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident living in Oklahoma.
The average SSI recipient in the state is paid $600 monthly. While lower than SSDI payments, SSI has no work requirement. You can apply for both programs if eligible.
Workers’ Compensation Disability in Oklahoma
Oklahomans injured on the job may receive workers’ compensation disability benefits, including:
- Temporary partial disability – Replaces some lost wages if you can work reduced hours.
- Temporary total disability – Replaces all wages for a short time if you cannot work at all.
- Permanent partial or total disability – A percentage of wages if partially or fully disabled long-term from your work injury.
These benefits are provided regardless of the person at fault for the injury. But to qualify, the disability must have occurred within the scope of employment.
Disability Benefits for Oklahoma Veterans
The VA Disability Compensation program provides tax-free income to veterans with conditions caused or aggravated by military service. Monthly payments are based on your disability rating from 0 to 100%. To qualify, you must:
- Have a service-related disability rated at least 10% disabling.
- Have an honorable or general military discharge.
The more severe your disability, the higher your rating and compensation. In addition to monthly payments, veterans with disability ratings of 30% or higher get extra dependent allowances. Disabled vets also receive priority access to VA medical care.
Disability Programs Help You Qualify for Lifeline & ACP
If you receive SSDI, SSI, or other government assistance in Oklahoma, you likely qualify for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to get FREE cell phone service with EASY Wireless.
EASY Wireless Offers Eligible Lifeline and ACP Customers in Oklahoma
- Free smartphone with Unlimited Talk & Text
- Free Unlimited Data
- Free activation & SIM card
- Choose to Keep You Number or Get a New One
- Plus automatic enrollment in our EASY Rewards Program
With over 20 years of experience providing reliable communication services to thousands of satisfied customers, EASY Wireless is a trusted wireless provider. Our mission is to assist customers in utilizing programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program so you can access free cell phone services.
To begin, simply enter your zip code and email address in the enrollment box below then click “Enroll Now.”
Visit One of Our Stores
Alternatively, you can visit one of our 30 retail stores located throughout Oklahoma. Our knowledgeable staff will guide you through the application process, including assisting with the various eligibility requirements and verification through the National Verifier system.
At EASY Wireless, we make it simple for you to enroll in savings programs like ACP. Our goal is to help you get connected with heavily discounted or free cell phone service each month. Reach out by phone, online, or in-store, and we’ll happily get you started.
Apply for Disability Programs in Oklahoma
Reduce Your financial burden with various disability benefits available in Oklahoma. If you are unable to work due to illness or injury:
- Contact Social Security to apply for SSDI and/or SSI
- File a workers’ compensation claim if disabled from a work accident
- Look into VA disability if you have qualifying military service
- Mention your public aid when signing up for Lifeline & ACP wireless discounts!
Having a disability can put a strain on you and your finances. These vital programs lend assistance so you can focus on your health. Reach out to Social Security or the VA to take the first step.
