Main Types of Disability Benefits

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

• Who It’s For: Individuals who have worked and paid into Social Security through payroll taxes.
• Key Features:
• Based on your work history and earnings.
• Includes Medicare eligibility after 24 months of benefits.
• Available for people who can’t work due to a long-term or permanent disability.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

• Who It’s For: Individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of work history.
• Key Features:
• Funded by general tax revenues, not Social Security taxes.
• Provides monthly cash assistance to help cover basic needs.
• Often includes Medicaid eligibility for healthcare coverage.

Veterans Disability Benefits (VA)

• Who It’s For: Veterans with service-connected injuries or illnesses.
• Key Features:
• Administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
• Monthly tax-free payments based on a disability rating (0–100%).
• Additional benefits for dependents and housing may be available.

State Disability Insurance (SDI)

• Who It’s For: Residents of certain states (e.g., California, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Hawaii).
• Key Features:
• Temporary disability benefits for short-term conditions.
• Funded through state payroll taxes.
• Often lasts a few months up to a year, depending on the state.

Private Disability Insurance

• Who It’s For: Individuals with short- or long-term disability policies through their employer or purchased individually.
• Key Features:
• Provides a portion of your income if you’re unable to work.
• Varies based on policy terms and provider.
• Can be used in addition to other public benefits.

How to Know Which Benefits You Qualify For

• SSDI: You’ve worked for years and paid Social Security taxes.
• SSI: You have little or no income/resources and limited work history.
• VA: You’re a veteran with a disability linked to your service.
• SDI: You live in a state that offers it and have temporary disability.
• Private: You have an active private insurance policy.