Benefits for Disabled People

The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs are the largest of several federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities. While these two programs are different in many ways, both are administered by the Social Security

Administration and only individuals who have a disability and meet medical criteria may qualify for benefits under either program, according to the SSA.

When you apply for either program, the SSA will collect medical and other information from you and make a decision about whether or not you meet Social Security's definition of disability.

HOW TO APPLY

According to the SSA, you should apply as soon as you become disabled. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind:

• Social Security Disability Insurance benefits have a five-month waiting period, which means that benefit payments will not begin before the sixth full month of disability. The SSDI waiting period begins the first full month after the date we decide your disability began.

• There is no waiting period if your disability results from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and you are approved for SSDI benefits on or after July 23, 2020.

• Supplemental Security Income disability benefits are paid for the first full month after the date you filed your claim, or, if later, the date you become eligible for SSI.

You can apply for disability benefits online, or if you are unable to complete the application online, you can apply by calling the SSA's toll-free number, 800-772-1213, between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m.

People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call the toll-free TTY number, 800-325-0778, between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

DENIED APPLICATIONS

If your application is denied for medical reasons, do not be discouraged. You can complete and submit the required appeal request and appeal disability report online. The disability report asks you for updated information about your medical condition and any treatment, tests or doctor visits since the decision was made.

Be sure to contact the SSA if you have any questions regarding their programs.