Social Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance

The Social Security Administration (SSA) pays disability benefits under two programs: the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.

Social Security Disability Insurance

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that pays monthly cash benefits to people who are unable to work for a year or more because of a disability. Benefits usually continue until you are able to work again on a regular basis. There are also a number of special rules, called "work incentives," that provide continued benefits and health care coverage to help you make the transition back to work.

Social Security Income

Social Security Income (SSI) is a Federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes) to help the elderly and people with disabilities who have little or no income. SSI provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter. SSI disability payments are made on the basis of financial need. SSI recipients usually also qualify for food stamps and Medicaid.

Social Security Administration

1470 Pantops Mountain Place
Charlottesville, VA 22911
Phone: (434) 295-1144

The SSA Screening Tool can help you identify all the different Social Security programs for which you may be eligible.