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Types of Social Security Disability Benefit Claims

When individuals become unable to work due to a disability, they often turn to Social Security for support. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers several types of disability benefits, each designed to assist different groups of individuals based on their specific needs and circumstances. An attorney can provide guidance for which claim type(s) you may be eligible to receive.

What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is designed for individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. To qualify for SSDI, applicants must have accumulated a sufficient number of work credits and have a disability that meets the SSA’s definition. SSDI benefits are based on the recipient’s earnings record, meaning the amount received reflects how much the individual has paid into the system.

What are Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older and have limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI is not dependent on the recipient’s work history but is funded by general tax revenues. SSI aims to provide cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

What are Disabled Widow’s or Widower’s Benefits?

Disabled Widow’s or Widower’s Benefits (DWB) are available to the spouses of deceased workers who had earned enough Social Security credits. To qualify, the widow or widower must be between the ages of 50 and 60 and have a medical condition that meets the SSA’s definition of disability. The disability must have started before or within seven years of the worker’s death.

What are Disabled Adult Child Benefits (DAC)?

Disabled Adult Child Benefits (DAC) are available to children who become disabled before the age of 22 and have a parent who is deceased or who receives Social Security retirement or disability benefits. These benefits allow the child to become eligible based on their parent’s earnings record, provided the disability meets the SSA’s criteria.

Who qualifies for each type of benefit?

  • SSDI: Workers who have accumulated sufficient work credits and have a qualifying disability.
  • SSI: Individuals with limited income and resources, who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older.
  • DWB: Widows or widowers aged 50-60 who are disabled and whose deceased spouse was insured under Social Security.
  • DAC: Adults who were disabled before age 22 and have a parent eligible for Social Security benefits or deceased.

Why are these distinctions important?

Understanding the distinctions between these types of benefits is crucial because each addresses different needs and has different eligibility requirements. Knowing which program you may qualify for can help direct the application process, ensuring that individuals apply for the most appropriate type of support. An attorney can help ensure you file for the correct claim type.