Understanding the Two Main Disability Programs

The Social Security Administration (SSA) oversees two main programs:

• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)
• Based on your work history and the payroll taxes you've paid
• You must have earned enough work credits to qualify
• Not available to those without any work history
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
• Based on financial need, not work history
• Designed for low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or aged 65+
• Available even if you've never worked a day in your life

How to Qualify for SSI Disability Without Work History

To be approved for SSI disability benefits, you must meet these criteria:

• You have a qualifying disability that meets the SSA’s definition
• You have little to no income (including wages, pensions, or support)
• Your resources are limited (typically less than $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple)
• You are a U.S. citizen or qualifying non-citizen
• You reside in the U.S. or certain U.S. territories

Who Typically Applies for SSI?

You may be eligible for SSI if you:

• Have never been able to work due to a disability that started in childhood or early adulthood
• Are a disabled adult who stayed home as a caregiver
• Are a low-income senior over age 65
• Lost work history due to long-term illness or injury

Children under 18 with disabilities can also qualify for SSI—based on their parents’ income and resources.

Can You Apply for Both SSDI and SSI?

In some cases, yes. This is called a concurrent claim. If you have some work history but limited income, you might qualify for both programs and receive benefits under each.