The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability
programs are the largest of several Federal programs that provide
assistance to people with disabilities. While these two programs
are different in many ways, both are administered by the Social
Security Administration and only individuals who have a disability
and meet medical criteria may qualify for benefits under either
program.
Social Security Disability Insurance
pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you
are "insured" meaning that you worked long enough and paid Social
Security taxes.
Supplemental Security Income
pays benefits based on financial need.
When you apply for either program, we will collect medical and
other information from you and make a decision about whether or
not you meet Social Security's definition of disability.
Use the Benefits Eligibility Screening Tool
to find out which programs may be able to pay you benefits.
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