Statistics show that over 8 million individuals living with disabilities received Social Security Disability benefits this past year. If you suffer from disabling conditions, you may qualify to receive financial help in the form or disability benefits. Social Security Disability benefits can help relieve those who have suffered by providing financial assistance. Applying for benefits can be a complex process and some individuals struggle to find a successful resolution. For a better understanding of Social Security, we break down the facts.

2 Types Of Benefits

The largest of several government programs providing assistance to those with disabilities are Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income. The main difference between these two programs is that SSDI pays disability benefits to individuals and possible family members who have worked long enough and paid Social Security Taxes, therefore are considered “insured.” SSI pays disability benefits to low-income individuals, based on financial need.

Do I Qualify For SSDI?

In determining if you qualify for benefits, it’s crucial to understand how the Social Security Administration defines “disability”. You are considered disabled if you cannot perform work that you previously did; it is decided that you cannot adjust to other types of work due to your condition and the length of your disability is expected to last for at least a year or result in death. You must also determine if you have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits. This is something that varies from individual to individual. For further information on SSDI qualification visit the related resource below.

Do I Qualify For SSI?

Again, it is necessary for you to determine if you meet the criteria of being disabled, according to the Social Security Administration’s terms as referenced above.  Since this is a need based program, you must also prove that your income and assets are below a specific amount to qualify.  Unlike SSDI, if you are not disabled, individuals over 65 years of age may also qualify to receive SSI benefits based on income and assets.

Learn How To Get Disability Benefits

Typically, to qualify for disability payments, the medical requirements are the same under both programs.  The Social Security Administration provides a useful checklist to help individuals gather all the necessary information for their application.  A Benefits Eligibility Screening Tool is also provided to assist in determining which benefits an individual may be eligible for.  Once you are ready to apply, you can do so online or in person by making an appointment at your local Social Security office.

The Decision Process

Each year millions of people apply for disability benefits.  Therefore, the time between an individual’s initial application and a final decision can be long.  Many individuals seek professional assistance from an experienced Social Security attorney or disability advocate to assist with the application and appeals processes.  Partnering with an expert will ensure that all necessary documents and information is provided as required, avoiding delays.  In the event your application is denied, you have the ability to file an appeal and have your application reviewed a second time or a heard in court.

Other Benefits

There are over 2500 federal state and private benefits programs available, many of which can help older adults better navigate life after 55. But it can be difficult to find your way through the large array of services offered. Learn more about a tool that instantly matches you to benefits you may qualify for in our Benefits Spotlight article.