Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

Social Security Disability Insurance is a federal cash benefits program for those with disabilities and qualifying work history. Monthly cash payments are determined by how long the claimants has worked and the amount that has been paid into Social Security. An individual can collect Social Security either through one’s own work history or through that of a family member (typically a spouse or parent).

2. What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Supplemental Security Income is a needs-based cash benefits program intended for those who have disabilities or are over 65 years old. Recipients of monthly SSI payments have very little income or financial resources. The program places a cap on how much income a recipient can receive per month in order to qualify for SSI benefits.

3. How do I get disability benefits?

To get disability benefits from the Social Security Administration, one has to apply for either SSDI or SSI and qualify for the problem for which one has applied. The Social Security Administration sets specific criteria for someone to be considered “disabled.” This criteria takes into account the effect a disability or multiple disabilities have on one’s ability to do basic tasks, an individual’s work history up to that point, and the person’s ability to transition into other work. A person’s age, education and work history is taken into account. For example, a person with limited education may not easily get certain jobs that, while not physically strenuous, require a certain level of education.