Social Security Administration Programs

The Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income programs are the largest of several federal programs. These programs provide assistance to people with disabilities. While both programs are different in many ways, the Social Security Administration administers them only to persons who have a disability and meet medical and financial criteria.

Social Security Disability Insurance

Social security taxes paid by workers, employers, and self-employed persons finance this program (mainly through the Federal Insurance Contributions Act [FICA] tax). A worker will get automatic Medicare coverage after receiving disability benefits for two years.

If you or certain members of your family are “insured,” then Social Security Disability Insurance is able to pay out benefits. This means that since you worked long enough and paid enough Social Security taxes, SSDI may cover you.

Disability benefits are payable to:

• Blind or disabled workers.
• Children of blind or disabled workers.
• Widow(er)s.
• Adults disabled since childhood.

The Social Security earnings record of an insured worker determines the amount of the monthly disability benefit.

NOTE: Keep in mind, though, that having enough work credits is not enough to receive benefits. You must meet social security’s definition of disability to qualify for benefits.

Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income pays benefits based on financial need, meaning that since general revenues from taxes finance the program, benefits are not based on your prior work history. The monthly payment varies up to the maximum federal benefit rate. Because benefits are capped at the federal level, some states may supplement your benefits to help you out.

In most states, SSI beneficiaries are also eligible for Medicaid, too. SSI disability benefits are payable to:

• Individuals age 65 or older.
• Disabled or blind adults.
• Disabled or blind children.

To be eligible for SSI disability income benefits, a claimant must meet the following requirements:

• Income & Resources – A claimant must have limited income and their resources must meet the living arrangement requirements.
• Citizenship – A claimant must be a U.S. citizen or national, or in one of certain categories of aliens.

If you’re looking for help and advice with receiving SSDI or SSI, our website can provide the information to get you started on the application process. We can also connect you with a Social Security attorney who focuses on claims/appeals/hearings for Social Security Disability benefits. Additionally, that attorney will help file your paperwork—removing the stress and uncertainty that comes with SSA technicalities. Contact us today to get started!