Social Security is the federal program that provides retirement, disability, survivor, family assistance and Medicare benefits. The program is funded by earmarked taxes withheld from employees’ pay checks, matching funds from employers and taxes from self-employed individuals. Social Security benefits are administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and governed by the Social Security Act.
To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, a person must be “disabled” according to the definition provided by the federal Social Security Act. A person is disabled if he or she:
A: SSDI is part of Social Security, which provides a “safety net” of benefits for workers in times of need. You pay into Social Security via a payroll tax. Once you have worked long enough to have paid a certain amount of this tax, you become eligible for certain benefits. One such program is SSDI. To get social security disability income benefits, you must have a disability that:
• Keeps you from doing your job
• Keeps you from doing another job
• Is expected to last at least a year or result in death
A: You apply for SSDI through Social Security, but the approval process is handled at the state level. South Carolina disability lawyers know the nuances of how this works in your state. They can guide you through the application process and appeal, if needed.
A: Yes, you may qualify for:
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)—This federal aid program is funded by general tax dollars, so there is no work requirement as with SSDI.
• South Carolina State Insurance Fund (GASIF)—This state program offers temporary benefits to workers who become ill or injured off the job, or who suffer complications related to pregnancy.
SSDI: Disabled Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Divorced Spouse benefits are paid to people who meet certain age and other requirements. The deceased spouse must have been insured through his or her work record for the living spouse to qualify for coverage.
SSI: Supplemental Security Income benefits are paid to low-income recipients who are disabled, blind or elderly and have limited resources.
SSDI: Childhood Disability benefits are paid to people who are at least 18 years old and became disabled prior to the age of 22. The payment to the child is based on the earnings record of a qualified parent who is retired, disabled or deceased.
SSI: Child’s Disability benefits are paid to children up to age 18 who are disabled or blind and whose families meet certain criteria concerning income and resources.
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