What kind of disability benefits does Social Security pay?

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What kind of disability benefits does Social Security pay?

People who are severely disabled may be eligible for monthly benefits under one or more of the programs we administer. Both the Social Security program and the SSI program provide a monthly income for people with severe disabilities. However, the eligibility requirements for the two programs are different.

The Social Security program pays benefits to disabled or retired workers and their families and to the families of deceased workers. To be eligible for Social Security disability benefits, you must be disabled and must have earned a minimum number of credits from work covered under Social Security. (The required number of credits varies depending on your age at the time you became disabled.)

The SSI program provides monthly income to people who are age 65 or older, or are blind or disabled, and have limited income and financial resources. Effective January 2000, the SSI payment for an eligible individual is $512 per month and $769 per month for an eligible couple. If you are married, and only one person is eligible, a portion of your spouse`s income may be counted. In addition, your financial resources (savings and assets you own) cannot exceed $2,000 ($3,000 if married). You can be eligible for SSI even if you have never worked in employment covered under Social Security.

Generally, to be eligible for SSI, an individual also must be a resident of the United States and must be a citizen or a non-citizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence. Also, some non-citizens granted a special status by the Immigration and Naturalization Service may be eligible.

Other Social Security Disability FAQs

Q: When did Social Security start?
A: President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act on August 14, 1935. Taxes were collected for the first time in January 1937 and the first one-time, … More
Q: What is the origin of the term Social Security?
A: Abraham Epstein in connection with his group, the American Association, first used the term in the U.S. for Social Security. Originally, the Social Security Act of … More
Q: Who is the Commissioner of Social Security?
A: Kenneth S. Apfel was nominated on May 23, 1997 by President Clinton and confirmed by the Senate on September 19, 1997 as the Commissioner of the United States Social … More
Q: Who is the Commissioner of Social Security?
A: Kenneth S. Apfel was nominated on May 23, 1997 by President Clinton and confirmed by the Senate on September 19, 1997 as the Commissioner of the United States Social … More
Q: What is the difference between Social Security disability and SSI?
A: Social Security disability insurance is a program that workers, employers and the self-employed pay for with their Social Security taxes. You qualify for these … More
Q: What are the disability requirements for an adult?
A: The definition of disability in the Social Security law is a strict one. To be eligible for benefits, a person must be unable to do any kind of substantial gainful … More
Q: I receive Social Security disability benefits. Will my Social Security benefits change when I turn age 65?
A: When you turn age 65, nothing will change, except for Social Security purposes, your benefits will be called retirement benefits instead of disability benefits. More
Q: Does private disability protection reduce your Social Security Benefit?
A: No. Your eligibility for Social Security disability payments is not affected by any private insurance you may have. However, worker`s compensation and certain other … More
Q: How do I apply for Social Security disability benefits?
A: You can apply by calling your local Social Security Office. A representative will schedule an appointment for you. You can apply in person or over the phone. You … More
Q: What will I need to apply?
A: The claims process for disability benefits is generally longer than for other types of Social Security benefits, from 60 to 90 days. It takes longer to obtain medical … More

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

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