What assistance is available to people with disabilities?

There are 2 major federal programs to give cash assistance to people with disabilities:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI ), and

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Both of these programs are administered by the Social Security Administration and are available only to individuals who have a disability that prevent them from working on a regular basis.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) sometimes also referred to as Title II Benefits) is available to people who have worked in jobs covered by Social Security for long enough to qualify for benefits. They must also have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of a disability. In order to qualify for SSDI, you must have worked enough quarters or gained enough credits. The number of credits or quarters of work you need changes based on how old you were when you became disabled. If you become disabled early in your work career, you will need fewer credits to qualify. Most people need 40 credits to qualify with 20 of those credits occurring in the 10 years leading up to your disability.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI also referred to as Title XVI Benefits) is available to people who are low income and are either disabled, blind or over the age of 65. This program is not based on how much you have paid into the system (by working enough quarters) but rather is based on need. The financial qualifications for this program are that you make very little money in income and have low resources.

How do I apply?

To apply for any of the programs run by SSA, you can call their toll free number at 1-800-772-1213. If you need TTY services, call 1-800-325-0778. You can also go to a local SSA office. Find your local office.

Where can I get more information?

The Social Security website is full of useful information that can help you better understand these programs.

See also the Forms & Education tab in this section for more information.