Skip to main content

Understanding Your Social Security Disability Options

The Social Security Administration offers two main programs for people with disabilities: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). While both provide vital financial support, each program has different eligibility rules. Here's how they work – and how we can help you get approved.

Family with disability support
Community support scene
Social Security Disability Insurance

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes for asking you "insured". The SSDI program is paid by workers, their employers, and self-employed workers. In other words, if you worked, these are benefits you have paid for.

  • Workers must have earned sufficient credits based on the Social Security taxes they paid while working to be considered "insured".
  • A family member may also be entitled to benefits based on your Social Security earnings of the insured worker.
  • You are entitled to Medicare coverage after waiting period from the date of your approval.
  • Under SSDI, disability benefits are payable to disabled workers, their children, and the worker's widow(er), or to adults who have been disabled since birth.
Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) pays benefits based on financial need and is not based on your prior work history. In most states beneficiaries will automatically be eligible for Medicaid. If your child is approved for benefits their monthly payment amount can vary, but may be supplemented by the state. The monthly payment your child receives if approved can vary up to the maximum federal benefit rate which may be supplemented by the state. In most states, beneficiaries will automatically be eligible for Medicaid.

Eligibility requirements for Social Security Income (SSI) and SSI for Children, include:

  • Being 65 years or older, an adult who is disabled or blind, or a child who is disabled or blind.
  • Having limited income and resources.
  • Meeting the living arrangement requirements.
  • Being a U.S. citizen, national, or having a qualifying alien status.

If you need help determining what benefits you may be eligible for under these programs call Disability Benefits at 1-866-334-4070 or simply fill out the form below to get more information and help from our experts in determining what disability benefits you may be eligible for.

Call Us Now 1-866-334-4070

Start Receiving the Benefits you Deserve

Taking the first step toward getting the disability benefits you deserve is easy. Our free assessment helps you understand your options quickly, and it only takes a few minutes to complete the form. An experienced team member will contact you within one business day to discuss your unique situation.

Your personal information is strictly confidential and secure.

Privacy and Security Notice: Your personal information is strictly confidential and secure. Upon submitting this form, you will receive an email or phone call from one of our Accredited Representatives to discuss your disability claim.