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The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers two programs that provide benefits based on disability:

• the Social Security disability insurance program (title II of the Social Security Act (Act)) and
• the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program (title XVI of the Act)

The Social Security disability insurance program (title II of the Social Security Act (Act)) for payment of disability benefits to disabled individuals who are “insured” under the Act by virtue of their contributions to the Social Security trust fund through the Social Security tax on their earnings, as well as to certain disabled dependents of insured individuals.

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program (title XVI of the Act)) provides SSI payments to disabled individuals (including children under age 18) who have limited income and resources.

DEFINITION OF DISABILITY

For all individuals applying for disability benefits under title II, and for adults applying under title XVI, the definition of disability is the same.

The law defines disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) that can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.

DISABILITY IN CHILDREN

Under title XVI, a child under age 18 will be considered disabled if he or she has a medically determinable physical or mental impairment or combination of impairments that causes marked and severe functional limitations and that can be expected to cause death or that has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.

What is a “Medically Determinable Impairment”?

A medically determinable physical or mental impairment is an impairment that results from anatomical, physiological, or psychological abnormalities that can be shown by medically acceptable clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques. The medical evidence must establish that an individual has a physical or mental impairment; a statement about the individual’s symptoms is not enough.

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Dependent benefits for children generally end when they reach age 18.

However, they can continue until age 19 if the child is a full-time elementary or secondary school student. Additionally, benefits can continue indefinitely if the child is disabled and the disability began before age 22.

The specific rules may vary, so checking with the Social Security Administration for detailed information based on individual circumstances is recommended.

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Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Benefits are distinct programs with different eligibility criteria and purposes:

1. Eligibility Criteria:
   • SSI: SSI is need-based and is designed to provide financial assistance to disabled adults and children with limited income and resources and elderly individuals aged 65 and older.
   • Social Security Benefits: Social Security benefits are earned through contributions to the Social Security system during a person’s working years. Eligibility is based on work credits earned through employment.
2. Source of funding:
   • SSI: SSI is funded by general tax revenues.
   • Social Security Benefits: Social Security benefits are funded through payroll taxes collected from workers and employers.
3. Amount of Benefits:
   • SSI: The benefit amount varies based on individual circumstances, income, and resources.
   • Social Security Benefits: The amount is determined by the individual’s earnings history and the age at which they begin receiving benefits.
4. Medical Coverage:
   • SSI: Eligibility often qualifies individuals for Medicaid.
   • Social Security Benefits: Beneficiaries become eligible for Medicare after reaching age 65.
5. Purpose:
   • SSI: Designed to ensure a minimum level of income for those with limited financial means.
   • Social Security Benefits: Intended to provide financial support in retirement, disability, or to surviving family members.

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