Disabilities Guidebook: Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

(Chapter 7, Section 1 from Guidebook of Laws and Programs for People with Disabilities)

What Is It?Social Security runs two programs for persons who are disabled and unable to work. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI or SSD) is an insurance program that provides monthly income to workers who become disabled and to certain family members. Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI) provides monthly income for people who are 65 or older, blind or disabled and who have very limited income and assets. SSI benefits are only paid to the eligible disabled person, not to dependants unless they also independently qualify for SSI. SSA has very helpful information about both these disability programs on its website.

Where to Apply?You can apply for SSDI and SSI through the Social Security Administration (SSA). You can apply in person at an SSA office. You can start an application over the phone by calling 800-772-1213. You can apply for SSDI online. If you want to apply for SSI, you can start your application online, but you will need to complete the application at an SSA office.

Who May Be Eligible?
SSDI: A worker who becomes disabled. In addition, certain family members may be eligible. These family members, with some limitations not fully described below, may include: 
• The worker’s spouse, if the spouse is caring for their child who is younger than age 16 or who is disabled;
• The worker’s spouse, if the spouse is age 62 or older; 
• The worker’s child if the child is younger than age 18. If the child is still in grade school or high school full time, the child can receive benefits up to age 19; 
• The worker’s child who is age 18 or older, if this adult child is disabled and became disabled before age 22;
• The worker’s divorced spouse, if the divorced spouse is age 62 or older, was married to the worker for at least 10 years, and is not currently married; and
• The worker’s stepchild or grandchild, in limited circumstances.

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