Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

U.S. government program providing financial assistance to disabled individuals

Template:Infobox government program

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program in the United States that provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying disability. It is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and is funded through payroll taxes collected under the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA).

History

SSDI was established in 1956 as part of the broader Social Security Act amendments. The program was designed to provide income to individuals who have paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes and have become disabled before reaching retirement age.

Eligibility

To qualify for SSDI, an individual must meet several criteria:

• Work Credits: The applicant must have earned a sufficient number of work credits, which are based on their total yearly wages or self-employment income. Generally, 40 credits are required, 20 of which must have been earned in the last 10 years ending with the year the disability begins.

• Definition of Disability: The SSA defines disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that is expected to result in death or that has lasted or is expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.

• Medical Evidence: Applicants must provide medical evidence to support their claim of disability. This includes medical records, doctors' reports, and recent test results.

Application Process

The application process for SSDI involves several steps:

1. Initial Application: Applicants can apply online, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office. They must provide detailed information about their medical condition, work history, and personal information.

2. Review: The SSA reviews the application to ensure it meets basic eligibility requirements. If the application passes this stage, it is sent to the Disability Determination Services (DDS) office in the applicant's state.

3. Medical Evaluation: The DDS evaluates the medical evidence and may request additional information or examinations.

4. Decision: The DDS makes a decision on the claim. If approved, the applicant will receive benefits. If denied, the applicant can appeal the decision.

Benefits

SSDI benefits are calculated based on the applicant's average lifetime earnings covered by Social Security. The amount is not based on the severity of the disability or the applicant's current income. In addition to monthly cash benefits, SSDI recipients may qualify for Medicare coverage after a 24-month waiting period.

Appeals Process

If an SSDI application is denied, the applicant has the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process includes several levels:

1. Reconsideration: A complete review of the claim by someone who did not take part in the first decision.

2. Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge: If reconsideration is denied, the applicant can request a hearing.

3. Appeals Council Review: If the hearing decision is unfavorable, the applicant can request a review by the Social Security Appeals Council.

4. Federal Court: If the Appeals Council denies the request or the applicant disagrees with its decision, the applicant can file a lawsuit in a federal district court.

Criticism and Challenges

SSDI has faced criticism for its lengthy application and appeals process, which can leave disabled individuals without income for extended periods. Additionally, the program has been scrutinized for its strict eligibility criteria and the high rate of initial claim denials.

Also see

• Social Security Administration
• Supplemental Security Income
• Medicare (United States)
• Federal Insurance Contributions Act