| In 2025, over 72.5 million Americans will benefit from SSDI and SSI support, with a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to ease rising costs. However, to qualify, applicants must meet specific disability criteria and provide comprehensive documentation. Here’s everything you need to know about disability benefits, the application process, eligibility, and more! |
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are essential benefits for Americans. If you’re living with a disability, raising a child with special needs, or on a fixed income as a senior, you may be eligible. However, the complex application process and eligibility criteria can be hard to understand. You may have questions like:
- What is the application process for SSDI or SSI?
- What should I do if my application is denied?
- Should I hire a disability lawyer for help?
Even a small mistake in the process can delay or deny your support. Don’t worry—Nationwide Disability Representatives has you covered! We’ve compiled a detailed guide with the 20 most common questions to clear your doubts and keep you informed.
Basics About SSDI And SSI
Question 1: What Is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
SSDI is a federal program that provides monthly payments to workers with disabilities who’ve earned enough work credits through Social Security taxes. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Typically, you need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years.
- In 2025, SSDI benefits range from $967 to $4,018, based on earnings history.
- To qualify, you must have a condition preventing substantial gainful activity (SGA) — $1,620/month in 2025 — for at least 12 months or that leads to death.
- SSDI supports about 8.2 million people annually.
If you’re unable to work due to a disability, you may be eligible. Applications can be made online or at a nearby Social Security office.
Question 2: What Is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
SSI is a federal program providing monthly payments to individuals who are disabled, blind, or 65+, with limited income and resources. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- In 2025, the maximum SSI payment is $967 for individuals and $1,450 for eligible couples.
- To qualify, you must have assets below $2,000 for individuals ($3,000 for couples), excluding a home or car.
- SSI benefits are adjusted based on income, such as free housing.
- Over 7.5 million Americans receive SSI annually.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply online or at any Social Security office.
Question 3: What Are The Key Differences Between SSDI And SSI?
SSDI and SSI are both important disability benefits programs, but they have key differences. Here’s a comparison:
| Program | 2025 Max Benefit | Eligibility | Taxable? | Waiting Period | Concurrent Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSDI | $4,018/month | Work credits based on earnings | Yes | 5-month waiting period | Possible if SSDI is low and you meet SSI’s income limits. |
| SSI | $967/month | Low income/assets, no work history | No | Benefits start sooner | Not applicable |
Eligibility For Disability Benefits
Question 4: What Qualifies As A disability?
Disability must be a medically determinable impairment (MDI) listed in the SSA’s Blue Book, which details conditions that prevent substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months.
Examples of qualifying conditions include:
- Severe arthritis: Limiting movement and function.
- PTSD: Disrupting daily life and work ability.
- Cancer: Significantly affecting health and work capacity.
- Mental health conditions: Including depression and anxiety (debilitating)
About 20% of SSDI claims are approved for mental disorders. Other conditions like heart disease, multiple sclerosis, and severe diabetes also qualify if they prevent work for at least a year.
Question 5: What Are The Social Security Benefits For Children?
Children under 18 (or 19 if still in school) may be eligible for SSDI auxiliary benefits if their parent is disabled or retired. Disabled children, including those with autism, may also qualify for SSI benefits if their income and assets are low.
- SSDI Auxiliary Benefits: Up to 50% of a disabled or retired parent’s SSDI benefit, subject to family maximums.
- SSI for Disabled Children: Up to $967/month if income and assets are low.
- Recipients: Over 1.3 million children receive benefits.
| Note: Children with autism may qualify for SSI if their condition significantly limits their ability to function and meet other eligibility criteria, including low income and assets. |
The Application Process
Question 6: How Does The Disability Application Process Work?
You can apply for disability benefits online at SSA.gov, by phone (1-800-772-1213), or in person at a Social Security office. To apply, you must provide medical records, work history, and proof of your disability.
The SSA follows a five-step evaluation process:
- SGA: Checks if you’re earning above the threshold.
- Severity: Assesses how your condition impacts work.
- Blue Book: Compares your condition to SSA’s listing.
- Past Work: Evaluates if you can do previous jobs.
- Other Work: Looks at your ability to do other work.
Note: Decisions might take 6-8 months. If denied and needed, appeals can go through reconsideration, an Administrative Law Judge hearing (ALJ), the Appeals Council, and the federal court.
Question 7: Should You Hire A Social Security Disability Lawyer?
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be tough due to complex forms and strict rules. You can try applying independently. Here’s how a lawyer can help:
- Hiring a disability lawyer increases your chances of approval.
- If denied, a lawyer handles the appeals process.
- Lawyers work on a contingency basis—pay only if you win.
- The lawyer’s fees is capped at just $7,200 in 2025.
- Lawyers also ensure compliance with deadlines,
- They also reduce the risk of delays or denials for complicated claims.
Question 8: What Are The Stages Of Getting Approved For Disability?
Here are the 5 stages of disability benefit approval by time
- Initial Application: Submit medical/work evidence (6-8 months).
- Reconsideration: New review if denied (3-6 months).
- ALJ Hearing: Present case to a judge (12-18 months, 50% approval rate).
- Appeals Council: Review judge’s decision (6-12 months).
- Federal Court: Final appeal (1-2 years).
Question 9: What Is The Fastest Way To Get Approved For Disability?
Expedited approval is available for Terminal illnesses, Compassionate allowances (e.g., certain cancers or ALS), and Urgent situations like homelessness.
- Due to their severity and life-threatening nature, Compassionate Allowance cases are processed within 20-30 days.
- Strong medical evidence and meeting SSA’s Blue Book criteria can also speed up the process.
Question 10: What Is The 55 Rule For Disability?
The “55 Rule” is a provision in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) medical-vocational guidelines that helps workers aged 55 and older (with disability or limited education/skills) who can’t perform past work or other jobs qualify for disability benefits.
Question 11: What Qualifies For Immediate Disability?
Immediate approval for disability benefits is available for certain conditions that are severe and life-threatening. These include:
- Compassionate Allowances: Serious conditions like pancreatic cancer are processed quickly.
- Terminal Illnesses: Conditions expected to result in death soon.
- Military-Related Disabilities: Disabilities related to service after 9/11, per the Veterans Disability Benefits Act.
| Note: To qualify, you need to provide clear medical evidence from accepted sources. |
Question 12: What Not To Say When Applying For Social Security Disability?
When applying for social security benefits, Dont:
- Exaggerate symptoms: Be honest about your condition.
- Downplay work ability: Accurately describe what you can and can’t do.
- Omit income: Report all income sources.
- Claim temporary conditions: SSDI is for long-term or permanent disabilities.
- Miss medical appointments: Missing appointments hurts your claim.
| Note: Always be truthful, detailed, and support your claim with solid medical evidence to improve your chances of approval. |
Benefit Amounts and Financial Considerations
Question 13: Are Disability Benefits Taxable?
According to the IRS, SSDI benefits are taxable if your combined income (half of your benefits plus other income) exceeds $25,000 for singles or $32,000 for married couples. SSI benefits, however, are not taxable.
Question 14: Can SSI See All Your Bank Accounts?
No, the SSA doesn’t directly access your bank accounts for SSI, but you must report all account balances on forms. They verify this information through audits. Misreporting can lead to SSI suspensions. To maintain eligibility, keep your assets below $2,000.
Question 15: Can You Collect Both Social Security And Disability?
Yes, if you were disabled before reaching full retirement age, you can collect both SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) and Social Security retirement benefits.
- Once you reach full retirement age (67), you can switch from SSDI to retirement benefits, but the amount remains the same.
- You can also collect both SSDI and SSI if your SSDI benefits are low and you meet SSI’s income and asset limits.
Question 16: How Do 2024 Social Security Benefits Compare Before and After the 2.5% COLA?
| Benefit Type | Before 2.5% COLA (2024) | After 2.5% COLA (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Retired worker | $1,927 | $1,976 |
| Married couple, both receiving benefits | $3,014 | $3,089 |
| Survivor benefit, older spouse | $1,788 | $1,832 |
| Survivor benefits, widowed parent, and two children | $3,669 | $3,761 |
| Worker receiving disability benefits | $1,542 | $1,580 |
| SSI maximum federal benefit, individual | $934 | $967 |
| SSI maximum federal benefit, married couple | $1,415 | $1,450 |
Working While Receiving Disability Benefits
Question 17: Will I lose my SSI If I work?
You may lose SSI if your countable income exceeds $2,000/month (in 2025) or your assets exceed $2,000. However, there are ways to retain benefits even if you work, such as:
- The SSA allows a $65/month exclusion on earned income
- Invest in a certain Plan to Achieve Self-Support, e.g., starting a business or education.
If your SSI benefit gets terminated due to a work-related issue, you can apply for reinstatement if your income drops later( proofs required).
Question 18: What Can A Disabled Person Get For Free?
- SSI Recipients: Get free Medicaid, SNAP (food assistance), and housing assistance in all 50 states.
- SSDI Recipients: Eligible for Medicare after 24 months.
Plus, Vocational rehab & Ticket to Work offer free support for returning to work.
Question 19: Can You Get Off Disability Once You Are On?
Yes, you can lose benefits if your condition improves or if you earn more than $1,620/month (SGA, 2025) after completing the Trial Work Period (TWP) or Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE).
The SSA conducts Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) every 3-7 years to assess ongoing eligibility.
| Note: About 5% of people exit benefits annually due to improvement or earning too much, according to SSA’s 2024 data. However, reinstatement is possible if your condition worsens (may require additional medical evidence). |
Question 20: Is Disability Benefits To The Spouse After Death Possible?
Yes, Survivor benefits under SSDI can provide spouses up to 100% of the deceased’s benefit if they care for a child under 16 or are at full retirement age. If they care for a child, the spouse may qualify for benefits even if they are not yet 67.
According to SSA’s 2024 report, over 5.8 million people receive survivor benefits.
Conclusion:
SSDI and SSI can be a headache to figure out, but you don’t have to stress! With the 2025 changes helping over 72.5 million folks, getting your benefits right is super important. This 20-question guide breaks it down so you dodge mistakes and grab the support you need.
Don’t wait—reach out to Nationwide Disability Representatives for expert help and easily secure your future today!
