SSDI and SSI: One day, you’re working hard, paying your bills, maybe even saving a little. Then—bam—a serious illness or injury turns everything upside down. Suddenly, just getting through the day is tough. Working? It feels impossible. And the bills? They keep coming, piling up like no one got the memo that you’re hurting.
If this is your reality, I want you to know: You’re not alone. And there’s help out there.
In the U.S., two powerful programs SSDI and SSI exist to support people like you who can’t work due to a disability. They offer monthly income, free health coverage, and a lifeline when everything else feels uncertain.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know about disability benefits—step by step.
What Exactly Are Disability Benefits?
Disability benefits are monthly payments and free healthcare provided by the government to people who can’t work due to serious medical conditions. These programs are run by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and include:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Each program helps a different group of people. Let’s break them down so you know which one fits your situation.
SSDI: Support for People Who Used to Work
Think of SSDI like early retirement for people who got sick or injured before reaching retirement age.
Who Qualifies for SSDI?
You may qualify if:
- You’ve worked and paid into Social Security for years (usually 5 out of the last 10 years if you’re over 31)
- You have a serious condition that makes working impossible for at least 12 months
- You’re under 66 years old
Example: Maria, 52, worked in healthcare for 20 years. After developing multiple sclerosis, she had to stop working. Because she paid Social Security taxes, she qualified for SSDI.
What Benefits Do You Get?
- A monthly payment (average is $1,500, but it can be as high as $3,822 in 2024)
- Medicare health insurance after 2 years
- Additional benefits if you care for young children or have student loans
And here’s the best part—your benefits last as long as your disability does, even if that means decades.
SSI: Help for People with Little to No Work History
Not everyone has a long work record. That doesn’t mean you don’t deserve help.
Who Qualifies for SSI?
You may qualify if:
- You’re disabled and can’t work
- You have very limited income and savings (under $2,000 if you’re single)
- You haven’t worked enough to qualify for SSDI
Example: Jamal, 28, was born with a developmental disability and has never held a full-time job. He qualified for SSI and now receives monthly payments and Medicaid.
What Benefits Do You Get?
- Up to $943 per month (or $1,415 for a couple) in 2024
- Free Medicaid health coverage right away
- In some states, extra cash on top of the federal amount
Other Types of Disability Benefits You Might Qualify For
Besides SSDI and SSI, there are other programs worth knowing about.
State Disability Insurance (Short-Term)
Available only in:
- California
- Hawaii
- New Jersey
- New York
- Rhode Island
Pays 50–66% of your old wages for 6–12 months. You must have worked recently and your doctor must confirm your disability.
Private Disability Insurance
If your employer offered disability insurance or you bought your own policy, you may receive:
- 80% of your old pay (short-term)
- 50–60% for many years (long-term)
Workers’ Compensation
If you got injured at work, you may qualify for:
- Free medical care
- Up to 80% of lost wages
What Conditions Qualify for Disability?
Many physical and mental conditions can qualify you for SSDI or SSI if they stop you from working for at least a year.
Some common ones include:
- Mental illnesses (depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder)
- Back injuries, arthritis, and joint problems
- Cancer (especially Stage 4)
- Stroke, epilepsy, or multiple sclerosis
- Diabetes, COPD, and chronic heart failure
- HIV/AIDS, lupus, and other immune conditions
Some severe conditions even qualify automatically under Compassionate Allowances or Terminal Illness categories. These fast-track your application.
How to Apply for Disability Benefits (Step-by-Step)
Here’s a quick guide to get started:
- Gather medical records – Include doctor’s notes, test results, hospital stays, and treatment history.
- Check your work history – For SSDI, make sure you’ve worked enough years.
- Apply online at SSA.gov or visit your local Social Security office.
- Be honest and detailed – The more info you provide, the stronger your case.
- Prepare for a wait – It can take months, but don’t give up.
If denied? Don’t panic. Many people get approved on appeal.
FAQ: Disability Benefits (SSDI and SSI)
1. What’s the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is for people who’ve worked and paid into Social Security. SSI is for those with little or no work history and very limited income.
2. Can I get both SSDI and SSI?
Yes, if your SSDI payment is low and you meet SSI’s financial limits, you may qualify for both.
3. How long does it take to get approved?
It varies, but most people wait 3 to 6 months. Appeals can take longer—but many people win on appeal.