SSDI and SSI benefits for people with disabilities

Learn how you may be eligible for benefits through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if you have a disability or are 65 or over.

Learn the difference between SSDI and SSI

• SSDI is tied to your work history. It pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you:
  • Have a disability and
  • Worked enough years to qualify and paid Social Security taxes during the years you worked

  Find out if you are eligible for SSDI and apply

  Your eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is based on your age, disability, and how long you worked. To find out if you are eligible for SSDI, use the Social Security benefits questionnaire.

  Your spouse or former spouse and your children may be eligible for benefits when you start getting SSDI. Learn about family benefits and see if your family members may qualify.

  You have options to apply online, by phone, or in person.

  • If your application is approved, you’ll have a five-month waiting period for benefits to start.
  • Learn how you can appeal if your SSDI application is denied.

  Find out if you are eligible for SSI and apply

  Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people who have little to no income. You must also either:

  Have a disability, or Be 65 or older

  You have options to apply online, by phone, or in person.

  • To apply for SSI for a child, you can start the process online. But you will need to complete the application process, either in person or by phone.
  • Understand the steps to appeal a decision if your SSI application is denied.

  When are SSDI and SSI benefits paid?

  The day you will get your SSDI or SSI benefits each month is based on your birthdate. Find out when you will receive your benefits [PDF, 108 KB].

  If your payment is more than 3 days late, contact the Social Security Administration.

  Get help with SSDI and SSI benefits

  You can create a free “my Social Security” account to manage your benefits online and:

  • Check on your application status
  • Update your name, address, and other information
  • Set up or change your direct deposit information to receive your benefits
  • Get tax documents to report income from SSDI benefits (SSI benefits are not taxable.)
  • Get a benefits verification letter to show what benefits you receive

  If you have specific questions:

  • Review the Social Security Administration’s frequently asked questions pages for:
    • SSDI
    • SSI

    Discover other disability benefits

    Use USAGov's benefit locator tool to find other disability benefits that may help with bills, education, jobs, and more.