SSDI (Social Security Disability) Overview
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SSDI refers to the Social Security Disability Insurance program. It is tied to the Social Security retirement program, but is for workers who become disabled before retirement age. Only workers who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for many years are insured by the SSDI program.
SSDI Basics
The who, when, what and how of Social Security disability benefits.
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.
In addition to a monthly cash benefit, you'll be eligible for backpay and Medicare.
You don't get paid disability benefits for the five months following your disability onset date.
Eligibility for SSDI
This section covers work credit and residency requirements, plus commonly asked questions.
The number of years you need to have worked to be insured for SSDI depends on your age.
You won't be eligible for SSDI after your date last insured -- your disability insurance expires when you don't work for a while.
SSDI and Retirement Benefits
Social Security Disability is a form of early retirement benefits.
Many early retirees collect SSDI when they can no longer work.
You can apply for disability retroactively after receiving early retirement.
Benefits for Dependents
If you've been approved for Social Security Disability benefits, dependents who rely on your income may also qualify for benefits.
If a disabled individual dies, his or her dependents may get Social Security survivors benefits.
Do-It-Yourself Legal Help
Learning as much as you can about the disability process will help you win benefits.
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. It includes everything you need to know about SSDI, plus what the SSA wants to see for every medical condition.
Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability is written by a former Chief Medical Consultant for the Social Security Administration. It includes everything you need to know about SSDI, plus what the SSA wants to see for every medical condition.