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Social Security Disability Basics
Social Security administers two programs for people who have become disabled and need monthly benefit payments to make up for their inability to work and earn a living.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI is a program designed for people who have worked and paid taxes into the Social Security system for years prior to becoming disabled. If an individual is judged disabled, the individual will receive SSDI benefits regardless of the individual's assets or family income.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI, unlike SSDI, is a "needs-based" program. SSI is designed to pay benefits to disabled people who need help with basic living costs, even if they haven't worked or paid taxes into the Social Security system. To qualify for SSI payments, a claimant cannot have family assets or income over a certain limit.
Overview of Disability Benefits From the SSA
Many aspects of the disability program apply to both SSDI and SSI.
What are the criteria the SSA uses to decide whether you are entitled to disability benefits?
The application process, and that to expect afterwards.
Many low-income disabled people collect both SSI and SSDI.
When is it worth your while to apply for disability benefits?
Answers to our most commonly asked questions.
Social Security Disability (SSDI)
SSDI benefits are only for disabled people who paid into the Social Security system for many years.
Social Security Disability is for workers who've paid taxes into the Social Security system for many years.
Your SSDI payment depends on your average lifetime earnings.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI benefits are available to disabled individual based on need, irrespective of their contributions to Social Security taxes.
For those who have never worked or haven't worked enough, SSI may be the only program they qualify for.
Your SSI payment depends on what other income you have and what state you live in.
Do-It-Yourself Legal Help
Need to learn how to handle your Social Security Disability Case? Find self-help books to guide you through the process.
Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability
Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability is written by a former Chief Medical Consultant for the Social Security Administration. Learn how to match the medical details of your disability to existing regulations to make sure you qualify for the benefits you're due.
Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability is written by a former Chief Medical Consultant for the Social Security Administration. Learn how to match the medical details of your disability to existing regulations to make sure you qualify for the benefits you're due.
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