What is SSDI?
Social Security Disability Insurance provides monthly benefits to people who cannot work due to a severe disability and have paid into Social Security through payroll taxes.
Understanding SSDI
SSDI eligibility requires sufficient work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years) and meeting SSA's definition of disability. Benefits are based on lifetime earnings. After 24 months of SSDI, recipients qualify for Medicare.
Examples
- 1Construction worker unable to work after back injury
- 2Office worker disabled by multiple sclerosis
- 3Receiving Medicare after two years on SSDI
Related Terms
SSI
Supplemental Security Income is a needs-based program providing monthly payments to disabled, blind, or elderly individuals with limited income and resources.
Disability Determination
The process by which Social Security evaluates whether an applicant meets the legal definition of disability and qualifies for SSDI or SSI benefits.
Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)
An assessment of the most an individual can do in a work setting despite their physical or mental limitations from medical conditions.
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