Disability and Special Needs

"The SSI program makes cash payments to people who are aged, blind, or have developed a disability (including children) and who have limited income and resources. The federal government funds SSI from general tax revenues. Many states pay a supplemental benefit to people in addition to the federal payments. Some of these states have arrangements with us (SSA) to combine their supplemental payment with the federal SSI payment into 1 monthly check. Other states manage their own programs and make their payments separately. Title XVI of the Social Security Act authorizes SSI benefits."

Source

In common terms, you will need to fit within 3 specific criteria:

• Have little or no savings and other assets — less than $2,000 if you’re single and less than $3,000 if you’re married.
• Have less than about $1,000 of income from any source.
• Your disability keeps you from working and it will last for at least one more year or it’s a terminal condition.

"SSDI provides benefits to people who have developed a disability or who are blind and who are “insured” by workers’ contributions to the Social Security trust fund. These contributions are based on your earnings (or those of your spouse or parents) as required by the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA). Title II of the Social Security Act authorizes SSDI benefits. Your dependents may also be eligible for benefits from your earnings record."

Source

In common terms, you will need to fit within 3 specific criteria:

• You are less than 67 years old
• Your disability keeps you from working and it will last for at least one more year or it’s a terminal condition.
• You’ve earned enough work credits through SSA. Most people qualify if they’ve worked and paid taxes for at least five of the last 10 years.