Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (SSDI)

To qualify for SSDI you must have an impairment that prevents you from working for at least 12 months and you must have worked & paid into the Social Security program for a least 5 of the last 10 years.  To apply, you can go in-person to any Social Security office or file an application online here.

 

Things to keep in mind:

 

  • Your spouse and children in high school and younger can also receive your SSDI benefits
  • After 24 months on SSDI, you are eligible for Medicare benefits
  • You may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, too

 

SOURCE: NAMI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

To qualify for SSI benefits, you must have an impairment that prevents you from working on a regular basis. Additionally, you must have a very low income and less than $2000 in assets.

 

Things to keep in mind:

 

  • Children can also qualify for SSI benefits if they have an impairment
  • A couple may not have more than $3000 in assets
  • Depending on your state, you may also receive a monthly supplement from the state
  • You are eligible for Medicaid coverage

 

SOURCE: NAMI