Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): What It Is, Who Qualifies, and What Benefits You Can Expect
Many people with severe or long-term disabilities have a limited capacity to work (or none whatsoever), leaving them susceptible to economic hardship. Thanks to federal programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), these individuals are able to live independently, have a roof over their heads, put food on the table, and pay for medications and basic expenses.
In order to receive SSDI, you need to meet certain criteria and the benefits you will receive may vary depending on your age and how much you earned during your working years. Social security disability insurance is paid by companies through their taxes and is designed to help those who can’t work due to disability. While SSDI benefits can be life-changing for recipients, understanding how it works and the application process it entails can be long and complex.
In this article, we'll go over what SSDI is, who qualifies, and what sort of benefits one can expect from it.
What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
SSDI is a Federal program that provides a certain amount of money to people with disabilities or injuries that are expected to last at least one year or can be life-threatening. People receive accumulated work credits they have earned through years of paying FICA taxes during their time of employment.
Who Qualifies for SSDI?
If you are under the age of 18, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if you have a physical or mental condition that significantly limits your activities and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
For adults ages 18-64, you must have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a certain number of years before you can qualify for SSDI benefits. In addition, your disability must be severe enough that it prevents you from working full time or any other job for which you are qualified.
If you are over the age of 65, you may still qualify for SSDI if you meet the work and earnings requirements. However, your disability must be expected to last at least one year or result in death.
Contact your local Social Security office to learn more about whether you qualify for SSDI benefits.
How to Apply for SSDI
Applying for Social Security disability benefits can seem like a daunting task, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you through the process, and the sooner you get started, the sooner you may be able to receive benefits.
The first step is to determine if you are eligible for benefits. To do this, you will need to provide information about your medical condition and your work history. It is also important to keep in mind that you must be unable to work in any capacity in order to qualify for benefits. If you are still able to perform some type of work, even if it is not in your previous field, you may not be considered disabled.
Once you have gathered all of the necessary information, you can begin the application process. The entire process can take up to five months, so it is important to be patient. However, once you have been approved for benefits, you will be able to receive the financial assistance you need to support yourself and your family.
SSDI Benefits to Expect
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will review your application for disability benefits after you have applied. This process usually takes several months, after which you will be notified by mail if you are eligible to receive benefits.
To qualify for SSDI, you must earn a certain number of social security work credits, which are based on the total amount of wages or self-employment income earned in a year. For example, if you earn $1,510 in wages or self-employment income, you will earn one credit. You can earn up to four credits each year.
If your application for benefits is denied and you remain unable to work, you can consult with an attorney to oversee your case and help you appeal the decision.