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Social Security Disability
What Is Social Security Disability?
Social Security disability is a government benefits program that provides financial assistance to people who are unable to work due to a disabling condition. To qualify for Social Security disability, an individual must have a physical or mental condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least one year or result in death. The Condition must also prevent the individual from engaging in any “substantial gainful activity”—meaning they are unable to earn a living. There are two types of Social Security disability benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is available to people who have worked and paid into the Social Security system, while SSI is available to people with limited income and resources. To apply for Social Security disability, an individual must complete an application and submit medical evidence of their disabling condition. A decision about whether an individual qualifies for benefits is then made by the Social Security Administration. If you are eligible for both programs, you will receive SSDI benefits first, followed by SSI benefits. You may also be eligible for other government benefits, such as Medicaid or food stamps. If you think you may qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits, contact our office today by text message or email at (916) 704-3009 for a free consultation.
Social Security FAQs
1. What Are the Two Types of Social Security Disability Benefits?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These are two separate but somewhat related programs.
2. What Is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
Social Security Disability Insurance is a government insurance benefits program that provides financial assistance to people who are unable to work due to a disabling condition. This is commonly abbreviated as SSDI.
3. What Is Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI)?
Supplemental security insurance is a program administered by the Social Security Administration to help disabled and impoverished people afford to live. These benefits are based upon the standard of living of the individual receiving benefits and upon how much other sources of countable income that the disabled individual is concurrently receiving. However, there is a maximum monthly amount, which is currently $841 for an individual, $1,261 for a couple with an eligible spouse, and $421 for an essential person. This maximum amount changes every year because it is adjusted for inflation. This is commonly abbreviated as SSI.
4. Who Is Eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits?
To be eligible for either SSDI or SSI, a person must have a physical or mental condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least one year or result in death, and the condition must prevent the individual from engaging in any substantial gainful activity.
5. How Do I Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits?
The ways to apply for benefits are online and at a local Social Security office. You can also apply over the telephone.
6. What Other Government Benefits May I Be Eligible for if I Receive Social Security Disability Benefits?
Some examples of other benefits you may be eligible for are Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly referred to as food stamps. You will also be eligible for Medicare coverage if you are found to be disabled.
What Is the Difference Between SSDI and SSI
There are several key differences between SSDI and SSI. Perhaps the most significant difference is that SSDI is a social insurance program, while SSI is a needs-based program. This means that to qualify for SSDI benefits, workers must have paid into the program through their payroll taxes, while anyone can qualify for SSI benefits as long as they meet the program’s low-income requirements.
Another key difference is that SSDI benefits are based on workers’ past earnings, while SSI benefits are not. This means that the higher a worker’s earnings, the higher their SSDI benefits will be. By contrast, because SSI benefits are needs-based, they are not dependent on a worker’s past earnings.
Finally, SSDI benefits are paid out of the Social Security Trust Fund, while SSI benefits come from general tax revenue. This means that SSDI benefits are not subject to annual appropriations by Congress, while SSI benefits are.
If you’re considering applying for social security disability, it’s important to know the process. We can walk you through every step of the application and appeal processes and make it as easy as possible for you. Call or text us today at (916) 704-3009 and let us help you get the benefits you deserve.
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