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Social Security Administration

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI pays monthly benefits to people who cannot work because of a disability and who have worked and paid Social Security taxes.

How it's run
Federal program
State guides
0 of 51
Type of help
cash

About SSDI

Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is run by the Social Security Administration. It pays monthly benefits to people who cannot work because of a serious medical condition that is expected to last a long time.

SSDI is based on your work history. To qualify, you generally must have worked long enough, and recently enough, in jobs where you paid Social Security taxes.

SSDI is different from SSI:

  • SSDI is based on your past work and the Social Security taxes you paid.
  • SSI is based on financial need. You do not need a work history.

Some people may qualify for both. Certain family members may also be able to get benefits based on your work record.

The application can take time, because Social Security reviews your medical records and work history. Before you apply, gather the names of your doctors, your medical records and a list of your past jobs.

Social Security decides if you qualify. If you are turned down, you may be able to appeal.

Learn more about disability benefits

SSDI guides

Offers that can help

Services from our partners. You never need a paid service to apply for benefits.

Advertiser disclosure
We may earn a commission when you use partner links. Partners never affect which programs we show, how we rank them, or our editorial content. How we make money

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Good to know

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Good to know

A $5 monthly fee applies without direct deposit. SNAP benefits can't be loaded.

Related programs

Extra HelpSocial Security AdministrationExtra Help may lower what people with Medicare and limited income and resources pay for Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.MSPCenters for Medicare & Medicaid ServicesMedicare Savings Programs help people with Medicare who have limited income and resources pay Medicare costs such as premiums.Property Tax ReliefState revenue departmentsMany states offer property tax relief that may lower property tax bills for some homeowners, such as older adults, people with disabilities and veterans.SSISocial Security AdministrationSSI pays monthly cash to people with limited income and resources who are older, blind or have a disability.

Sources

  1. Social Security Administration — SSDI

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