Social Security programs may provide income support to people with disabilities, older adults, and certain family members or survivors.
Different programs have different eligibility rules. Receiving one type of benefit does not automatically mean a person qualifies for another.
Social Security Disability Insurance — SSDI
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides monthly benefits to people who meet Social Security’s disability requirements and have enough qualifying work history.
The amount of an SSDI payment is generally based on the person’s previous earnings record rather than financial need.
Go to SSDI:
Use the Social Security Administration’s disability information and application system at SSA.gov.
Supplemental Security Income — SSI
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly payments to qualifying people who have limited income and resources and who are:
- Age 65 or older,
- Blind, or
- Living with a qualifying disability.
SSI is different from SSDI. A person does not need the same work history required for SSDI, because SSI eligibility is based in part on financial circumstances. Some people may qualify for both programs.
SSI and SSDI Are Not the Same Program
A simple way to remember the distinction:
SSDI is primarily connected to a person’s Social Security work record.
SSI is primarily a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources who also meet age, blindness, or disability requirements.
Social Security makes the actual eligibility determination.
Benefits for Children and Family Members
Children and certain family members may qualify for Social Security benefits based on their own circumstances or the work record of a parent or other qualifying family member.
An adult whose disability began before age 22 may also qualify for certain benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record under specific circumstances.
Because family-benefit rules can be complicated, use Social Security’s official eligibility tools or contact SSA directly rather than assuming someone does or does not qualify.
Retirement Benefits
Social Security also provides retirement benefits based on a person’s work history and Social Security-covered earnings.
Retirement benefits are separate from SSI and disability benefits, although a person’s circumstances may involve more than one Social Security program over time.
Start here:
Use SSA.gov to review retirement eligibility, estimates, and application options.
Survivor Benefits
Certain spouses, former spouses, children, and dependent parents may qualify for survivor benefits when a worker who paid Social Security taxes dies.
Eligibility depends on the relationship, age, disability status, and other circumstances.
Start here:
Use the Survivor Benefits section of SSA.gov or contact Social Security for help determining which application is appropriate.
Medicare and Disability Benefits
Some people who receive Social Security disability benefits may also become eligible for Medicare.
Medicare eligibility and timing depend on the person’s circumstances and benefit history, so check directly with Social Security or Medicare rather than assuming coverage begins immediately.
For other health-coverage options, see Open Door Peace’s Health Coverage and Medical Costs page.
Working While Receiving Disability Benefits
Working does not always mean disability benefits end immediately.
Social Security has rules and work incentives that may allow some beneficiaries to test their ability to work or continue working while maintaining some benefits or protections.
The rules can be detailed, and earnings may affect benefits differently depending on the program.
Before making an important employment decision, review the current rules with Social Security.
If Your Application Is Denied
A denial does not necessarily end the process.
Social Security provides several levels of appeal, beginning with reconsideration and potentially continuing to a hearing, Appeals Council review, and federal court review.
Appeal deadlines are important. Follow the deadline and instructions on the Social Security notice you receive rather than simply submitting a new application.
Before You Apply
You may be asked for information about:
- Identity and contact information
- Medical conditions and treatment
- Doctors, hospitals, or clinics
- Medications
- Work history
- Earnings
- Household income and resources for needs-based programs
- Marriage, children, or other family relationships when relevant
Social Security will tell you which records are required for your particular application.
Do not send Social Security numbers, medical records, benefit-login credentials, banking information, immigration documents, or other sensitive records to Open Door Peace through ordinary website messages or email.
Protect Yourself From Social Security Scams
Be cautious of anyone who threatens arrest, demands immediate payment, asks for gift cards or cryptocurrency, or pressures you to reveal account information while claiming to represent Social Security.
Use SSA.gov or verified Social Security contact information when accessing or discussing your benefits.
Important
Open Door Peace provides general information and navigation to disability and Social Security resources.
We do not determine whether someone is disabled under Social Security rules, calculate benefit amounts, file claims as the Social Security Administration, give individualized legal advice, or guarantee approval.
Eligibility standards, benefit rules, work incentives, payment amounts, and procedures can change. Always verify important information with the Social Security Administration or another qualified professional assisting with your individual situation.