It is easy to confuse Supplemental Security Income aka SSI with Social Security Disability Insurance, aka SSDI. SSI is for people with disabilities that have minimal means; SSDI is an insurance program that is available to qualified workers with disabilities regardless of their resources. SSDI pays cash benefits to those who are unable to work for a year or more due to disability until they work again or reach retirement age. Once you reach retirement age, the benefits convert to retirement benefits with the amount staying the same. After two years on SSDI, you become eligible to receive Medicare as well. There are also programs that help people transition back to work, as well. Qualifying for benefits isn’t easy as the Social Security Administration has rigid guidelines they follow regarding the definition of a disability. The disability must prevent you from doing any gainful work, and either last until or be the cause of your death. You are probably wondering:
- Who is eligible
- How do children qualify
- What classifies one as “disabled”
- What can I expect to receive for a payment
- How do I apply
Social Security Disability Insurance Explained
This article is for informational purposes only and shall not be construed as legal advice. No attorney-client relationship between the reader and Brennan & Rogers, PLLC, or its attorneys is intended. This article should not be used as a substitute for legal advice. Laws may vary from state to state, and the educational materials found in this article may not apply in all jurisdictions.
Brennan & Rogers, PLLC | 279 York Street, York, ME 03909 | 207-361-4680 | admin@brennanrogers.com
