Benefits for People with Disabilities

The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs are the largest of several Federal programs that provide aid to people with disabilities. While these two programs are dissimilar in many means, both are administered by the Social Security Assistants and only individuals who have a disability and meet medical criteria may authorize for benefits under either program.

Social Security Disability Insurance pays benefits to you and sure members of your family unit if you are "insured," significant that yous worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes.

Supplemental Security Income pays benefits based on financial need.


When you apply for either program, we volition collect medical and other information from you lot and make a decision near whether or not you meet Social Security's definition of disability. Periodically, nosotros volition demand updated information nigh your condition.  You may receive a Disability Update Report (SSA-455).  This course tin can now be completed online.

Use the Benefits Eligibility Screening Tool to discover out which programs may be able to pay y'all benefits.

If your awarding has recently been denied, the Cyberspace Appeal is a starting indicate to request a review of our conclusion about your eligibility for disability benefits.

If your application is denied for:

  • Medical reasons, you can complete and submit the required Appeal Request and Appeal Disability Report online.

    The disability report asks y'all for updated information about your medical condition and whatsoever treatment, tests or doctor visits since nosotros made our decision.

  • Non-medical reasons, y'all should contact your local Social Security Office to asking the review. Y'all also may call our toll-free number, i-800-772-1213, to request an entreatment. People who are deafened or hard of hearing can call our toll-free TTY number, one-800-325-0778.

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More Information

Faces and Facts of Disability Web Widget



Disability Decision Process

How We Decide If You lot Are Disabled

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Neurological Teleconference Summary

Disability Claims Procedure Video Series


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