People With Disabilities

The largest of several federal programs aimed at providing help for people who are disabled are Social Security Disability Insurance and the Supplemental Security Income program. Both are administered by Social Security, but they are different in other important ways.

WHO’S ELIGIBLE

Only those who meet certain medical criteria can qualify for benefits with either of these federal programs. Those with confirmed disabilities may apply to either or both. The Social Security Administration will collect personal information as part of the application process and then make a determination as to whether their definition of disability is met.

Officials recommend that applicants begin this process as soon as they become disabled.

KNOW THE DIFFERENCES

There is a five-month waiting period for Social Security Disability Insurance. Benefit payment won’t start before the sixth entire month of disability. This waiting period begins the first full month after the date the Social Security Administration determines that disability started. There are no waiting periods in certain situations, including for those whose disability results from ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. On the other hand, Supplemental Security Income benefits are paid the first full month after a claim is filed or the date you became eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance, whichever is later.

HOW TO APPLY

Apply for either Social Security Administration program online atssa.gov/benefits/ disability/apply.html or by calling the toll-free number (800) 772-1213. Those who are hard of hearing or deaf may call a special TTY number at (800) 325-0778. When an appointment is set, you’ll need to provide your Social Security number and proof of age, contact information for doctors or caseworkers, names and dosages of all medicines, any medical records in your possessions including lab results, and certain tax information.

The Social Security Administration also offers a special "Disability Starter Kit" designed to walk applicants through the interview and application process. They are available in both English and Spanish. All submitted documents must be original or certified copies. Should your application be denied, you can take part in an appeal process. You’ll be asked for updated information about your individual medical condition and any treatments or tests that have taken place since the initial decision was made.

Contact the Social Security Administration for additional details.

Should your application be denied, you can take part in an appeal process.

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