Two Programs
The Social Security administration provides two programs that are the largest of several federal programs designed to assist persons with disabilities.
Social Security Disability Insurance
Social Security is a funded by employers and employees to offer income support to those who retire or become disabled before retirement age. To qualify for Social Security Disability (SSA) you must be totally disabled with a disability that is expected to last a year or longer. You must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security long enough to earn 40 credits, 20 of which are earned in the 10 years before your disability. With sufficient credits, you are considered "insured".
Supplemental Security Income
Persons with disabilities who have very limited resources are eligible for income assistance under the Supplemental (SSI) program. They do not need to have fulfilled a work requirement. SSI is not funded by Social Security, but by general tax revenues. The program covers blind or disabled children as well as adults. Its eligibility determination and benefits administration process are handled by the Social Security Administration.
|
