The Social Security Administration has several different programs designed to support disabled individuals. Below you will find an overview of the five major programs offered by the SSA and their distinguishing factors. Those who are applying for any program due to disability must meet the SSA’s definition for disability. Our SSI lawyer near Denver can help you determine which program you may qualify for.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Also referred to as Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB), this program is designed to cover disabled individuals who were once able to work but are no longer able to. Qualifying applicants will have paid a proportionate share of FICA taxes via their paychecks, supporting the program they now want to take advantage of.

Supplemental Security Income Benefits (SSI)

SSI covers those who were not able to work a sufficient amount to qualify for SSDI or have never been able to work. This includes disabled children and adults under 65 years of age, as well as non-disabled individuals over 65. The SSI program is need-based and therefore includes an assessment of an applicant’s resources.

Child’s Disability Benefits (CDB)

While other programs are designed to replace income, CDB intends to lessen the financial burden of a child’s disability for their family. A person may qualify if they were born with a disabling condition or develop one before the age of 18. There is no minimum age requirement; those with severely limiting disabilities can qualify as soon as they are born.

Disabled Adult Child Benefits (DAC)

This program is designed to support disabled adult children whose parents qualify for Social Security benefits. The adult child must have developed their disability before the age of 22. Greater benefits may be possible if the qualifying parent paid substantial FICA taxes during their working years.

Disabled Widow and Widower’s Benefits (DWB)

If a person is disabled at the time of their spouse’s death, or becomes disabled within 7 years thereafter, they may qualify for DWB. The deceased spouse must have worked enough to qualify for SSDI and the surviving spouse must be at least 50 years of age.

Our SSI Lawyer Near Denver

The Social Security Administration’s benefit programs may be somewhat complex and intimidating if you are not familiar with disability law. Working with a qualified SSI lawyer near Denver can help improve your odds at approval on the first round or on appeal. Contact us today to schedule a case evaluation with our legal team.