What Is Social Security Disability Insurance?

Social Security Disability insurance (SSDI) is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration.  It is the inability to work due to disability. Applicants for the program must meet certain criteria in order to receive benefits with the major criteria being total disability.

Eligibility

This program unlike the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) does not use have income guidelines to determine eligibility to receive benefits. Disabled persons of any income are eligible to receive the program.

Qualifications

To qualify for the program, applicants must have a physical or mental condition that keeps them from obtaining employment. The medical or mental condition should last at least 12 months or is a permanent condition. Applicant must also have an employment history prior to the onset of the condition and under the age of 65. Young applicants who become disabled at age 22 may receive benefits collected from their parent's work benefits.

Documentation

Medical documentation is necessary to determine disability benefits. Thus, the Social Security administration will request, diagnosis, symptoms and laboratory results to substantiate the disability claim. The applicant pain symptoms are taken into consideration but not the determining factor. Medical evidence must show the persons inability to work. The Social Security department may require the applicant to visit another medical provide to substantiate the initial claim.

Representation

Most people choose to apply for SSDI benefits on their own, but there are others who employ someone to act as their representative during the application process and the appeal process if denied such as an attorney who specialize in this field. However, the representative could be someone other than a lawyer provided if they have the knowledge and skills necessary to help.