Social Security Disability Insurance – Eligibility, Benefits and How to apply?

The SSDI program pays monthly benefits to people who are unable to work for a year or more because of a disability. Benefits usually continue until you can work again on a regular basis. There are also several special rules, called work incentives, that provide continued benefits and health care coverage to help you make the transition back to work.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) – Eligibility, Benefits, and How to Apply

Eligibility Requirements

RequirementDetails
Work Credits– Generally need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years
– Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits
Disability Definition– Unable to do work at the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level
– Unable to do work you did previously or adjust to other work
– Condition has lasted or is expected to last for at least 1 year or to result in death

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SSDI Benefits

BenefitDetails
Monthly Payments– Paid to people unable to work for a year or more due to a disability
– Benefits usually continue until you can work again on a regular basis
Conversion to Retirement Benefits– If receiving SSDI when reaching full retirement age, benefits automatically convert to retirement benefits, but the amount remains the same
Work Incentives– Special rules that provide continued benefits and health care coverage to help you make the transition back to work

How to Apply for SSDI

Application MethodDetails
Online– Apply online through the Social Security Administration’s website
Phone– Call the Social Security Administration to apply by phone
In Person– Visit a local Social Security office to apply in person

If your SSDI application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. You can learn more about the appeals process on the Social Security Administration’s website.

In addition to SSDI, there is also the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which provides benefits to people with limited income and resources who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled. To find out if you may be eligible for SSDI, SSI, or other disability benefits, you can use the Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool on USA.gov.

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