There are several types of Social Security benefits, each designed to provide financial assistance in specific circumstances. Below is a closer look at the type of benefits available and the requirement for those benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.
Retirement Benefits
Eligibility: Typically, available to individuals who have worked and paid into Social Security for a required number of years (usually 10 years or 40 credits).
Age: You can start receiving benefits at age 62, but the full retirement age (FRA) varies based on the year of birth (between 66 and 67). Claiming earlier results in reduced monthly benefits, while delaying benefits past your FRA can increase the monthly amount.
Disability Benefits (SSDI)
Eligibility: For individuals who become disabled and are unable to work. You must have worked a certain number of years and paid Social Security taxes, depending on your age at the time of disability.
Requirement: Applicants must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability and provide medical evidence of the condition.
Survivors Benefits
Eligibility: Available to the family members of a deceased worker who had earned enough Social Security credits. Eligible family members can include:
Spouse (widow/widower)
Children (under 18, or up to 19 if still in school)
Dependent parents
Purpose: To provide financial support for families who lose a primary earner.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Eligibility: This is a need-based program for individuals who are elderly, blind, or disabled and have very limited income and resources.
Purpose: It provides financial assistance to meet basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. Unlike SSDI, SSI is not based on work history but rather on financial need.
Spousal Benefits
Eligibility: Available to a spouse of a person who is receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits, as long as the spouse is at least 62 years old.
Amount: A spouse can receive up to 50% of the worker’s benefit amount if claimed at full retirement age. If taken earlier, the benefit amount is reduced.
Child Benefits
Eligibility: Minor children (under 18 or 19 if still in high school) of parents who are receiving Social Security benefits (retirement, disability, or deceased workers).
Amount: A child can receive up to 50 percent of a parent’s benefit amount. The number of children receiving benefits can affect the total payout to the family.
If you are interested in learning more about Social Security disability benefits and are interested in applying and would like some assistance contact Greeman Toomey Law Office at 612-332-3252.
