A Guide to Social Security Disability Benefit Eligibility 

If you or someone close to you is blind or has a health condition that limits their ability to earn a living, financial help is available. Two federally funded programs that help people with disabilities cover their monthly expenses are Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income. Both have similar requirements, but each program is uniquely different in what it covers. This overview is intended to help you understand the processes and what is required, so you will know whether you qualify before submitting your application. 

Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits 

To qualify for benefits under the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, you must meet the criteria for their definition of “disability.” Their definition of disabled means having a physical or mental health condition, that is expected to last a minimum of 1 year or is something you would die from, that prevents you from earning enough money to cover your rent & utilities. Once approved, you will begin to receive monthly benefit payments starting after the initial waiting period. 

What is Supplemental Security Income? 

Like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI) was created to help people who are unable to work due to the limitations of their physical or mental condition. The basic requirements for both of these programs are very similar, but each has its differences. These programs provide the funds for living expenses, and medical supplies not covered by insurance. 

The Key Differences of Both Programs 

What makes these two programs similar is that they both require the person to have an illness or condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or ultimately result in death. Where they are different is in the fact that to qualify for SSDI, you need to have worked and paid Social Security tax. 

These are your “work credits”, and you need a certain amount to qualify. When you work, your employer withholds your taxes from your paycheck. This money is sent to the government and is credited to your Social Security account. You earn “4 credits” for each year worked before you became disabled. These “credits” will help you qualify for benefits. 

With SSI however, there is no required amount of work credits. It is based on age, your health condition, and having limited resources. Someone could qualify for SSI that has never worked a day in their life.