Direct answer
What is SSDI?
SSDI is federal Social Security Disability Insurance, a program that pays monthly benefits to workers who have paid enough FICA taxes and can no longer work due to a serious medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
SSDI is administered by the Social Security Administration and funded by payroll taxes. It is not welfare and is not based on income or assets — it is insurance you have earned through work.
Sourced from ssa.gov — see citations below.
Who runs SSDI?
SSDI is administered by the Social Security Administration and funded by FICA payroll taxes.
Is SSDI the same as SSI?
No — SSDI is insurance based on work history, while SSI is a needs-based program.
Who is eligible?
Workers with enough work credits whose medical condition prevents substantial gainful activity.
Topics
Sources
Every figure and rule on this page is drawn from official SSA publications. Verify at the links below.
- SSA — Apply for Disability Benefits (ssa.gov)
- SSA — SSI vs SSDI Comparison (ssa.gov)