For people who have some type of disability that keeps them from working a job that pays a living wage, they may be able to qualify for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). The two types of benefits are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
SSDI is given to those who have a documented medical or mental disability that renders them incapable of working. The guidelines for an SSDI disability are that the condition prevents the individual from working for a period of at least twelve months. The SSA has a detailed listing of all accepted disabilities. However, applicants who have a disability not explicitly recorded should still apply for benefits, as the manual of disabilities is always being updated. Examples of disabling conditions include:
• Respiratory – asthma, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension
• Cardiovascular – heart disease, chronic heart failure, aneurysm
• Neurological – brain tumor, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, cerebral palsy
• Immunological – HIV, inflammatory arthritis, scleroderma
• Mental – schizophrenia, affective disorders, personality disorders, autistic disorders.
Workers must have medical proof of a disability and must document that they have sought treatment. Workers seeking SSDI must also have a work history that is dependent upon their age. Applicants for SSDI may be denied initial acceptance but have the ability to appeal the decision.
SSI is an income supplement program that pays benefits to needy workers who may or may not be able to draw an income but still cannot provide for all of their needs. Beneficiaries of SSI are elderly, blind, or disabled workers.
SSI provides financial assistance for food, clothing, and shelter. When determining the amount of SSI a person will receive, the SSA will calculate how much a worker makes but does not include food stamps, residential assistance, energy assistance, or some other sources of assistance before making their award.
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