Social Security Disability Planner

Source:SSA http://www.ssa.gov/dibplan/index.htm

Social Security has TWO programs that pay benefits to people with disabilities.

Social Security's definition of disability

When you apply for either program, we will collect medical and other information from you and make a decision about whether or not you meet the requirements

Benefits Eligibility Screening Tool

Use thos tool to find out which programs may be able to pay you benefits.

Social Security Disability Insurance

This pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you are "insured" meaning that you worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes.

Supplemental Security Income

This pays benefits based on financial need.

What is SSI?

SSI is a Federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes): It is designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people, who have little or no income; and it provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

How can I get SSI?

Find the answer to this question and answers to many others about SSI by clicking on the following links:

Am I eligible for SSI?
General Information
Understanding SSI
SSI Spotlights
Social Security Handbook

Need Help Filling Out The Application?

Disability Report Form Guide

Find out why SSA asks for information on this form and how it's used to decide your claim by reading this page by page, step by step instructions.

Click on How-To box to read more:

Social Security Protection If You Become Disabled

Disability is a subject you may read about in the newspaper, but not think of as something that might actually happen to you. But the chances of becoming disabled are probably greater than you realize. Studies show that a 20-year-old worker has a 3-in-10 chance of becoming disabled before reaching retirement age.

While we spend a great deal of time working to succeed in our jobs and careers, few of us think about ensuring that we have asafety net to fall back on should we become disabled. This is an area where Social Security can provide valuable help to you.

This disability planner will explain the benefits available, how you can qualify, and who can receive benefits on your earnings record. It will also explain how to apply for the benefits and what happens when your application is approved. Use the buttons on the left to go to specific sections of the Planner.