How do I qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits?
Generally, SSDI benefits are paid to people who are so disabled they are unable to work for a year or more because of their disability. In addition, you need five years of work in the 10 years before the year you become disabled to qualify for SSDI. (Younger workers need fewer years of work.) If your application is approved, your first Social Security disability benefit will be paid for the sixth full month after the date your disability began. What about SSDI and health care? Everyone who is eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits is also eligible for Medicare after a 24-month qualifying period. The first 24 months of disability benefit entitlement is the waiting period. After the waiting period, Medicare will help pay for hospital and hospice care, lab tests, home health care, and other medical services. What is SSI? SSI is a program that provides monthly benefits to meet basic needs for food, clothing and shelter for people with low or no income and resourc
