# What is SSDI?

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.

**Direct answer:** 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.

## Who runs SSDI?
SSDI is administered by the [Social Security Administration](/ssdi) and funded by FICA payroll taxes.

   
## Is SSDI the same as SSI?
No — [SSDI is insurance based on work history](/ssi-vs-ssdi), while SSI is a needs-based program.

   
## Who is eligible?
Workers with enough [work credits](/answers/how-many-work-credits-do-i-need-for-ssdi) whose medical condition prevents [substantial gainful activity](/answers/what-is-substantial-gainful-activity).

## Sources
- SSA — Apply for Disability Benefits — https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/apply.html
- SSA — SSI vs SSDI Comparison — https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/text-over-ussi.htm

## Related questions
- [How much does SSDI pay per month in 2026?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/how-much-does-ssdi-pay-per-month-in-2026)
- [What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-is-the-difference-between-ssi-and-ssdi)
- [How long does SSDI approval take?](https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/how-long-does-ssdi-approval-take)
## Topics
- SSDI — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/ssdi
- Work Credits — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/how-many-work-credits-do-i-need-for-ssdi
- Substantial Gainful Activity — https://ssdidirectanswers.com/answers/what-is-substantial-gainful-activity

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Published: 2026-07-16T02:34:38.807417+00:00
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Disclaimer: SSDI Direct Answers is a private informational website. It is not affiliated with the Social Security Administration or any government agency. Informational only — not legal, medical, or financial advice. For official information visit ssa.gov.