Work Ability > SSA
The Social Security Disability Programs (SSA)
TWO PROGRAMS
The Social Security Administration (SSA) manages two disability benefit programs-Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These programs provide cash and/or medical benefits to people who are eligible. Each program has its own set of eligibility rules, work incentives, and benefits available. It is possible to receive benefits from both SSI and SSDI.
DEFINITION OF DISABILITY
The definition of disability for purposes of initial eligibility is the same under the SSDI and SSI programs. “Disability” is defined as the inability to perform Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA—Currently $900 per month) because of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that is expect to last for at least 12 months or to result in death.
IMPACT OF INCOME
Income impacts SSI and SSDI differently. For people receiving SSI, benefits are gradually reduced in relation to income (after the first $85 of income, SSI checks are reduced $1 for every $2 of income). SSDI is an “all or nothing” type of program, meaning that you receive your entire SSDI amount until your income reaches the SGA level, at which point your SSDI checks will stop after a period of time (called a “Trial Work Period”).
It’s important for you to understand
which program (s) you are receiving benefits from in order to understand
the impact of income on those benefits.
Phone (801) 887-9529
Address 1595 W. 500 South, SLC, UT 84104
E-mail ecerna@utah.gov
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