Social Security has two types of disability programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). For both programs, you have to show that you have been unable to work for 12 months or more because of your physical or mental conditions. The medical criteria are identical for both programs.
SSI is for people who have had little work history in the past five to ten years. The maximum benefit is $698 per month – but you might get less if your household has other income.
SSDI is for people who have worked in the past five to ten years. The amount of disability benefits you get depends on how much you earned over the years. Having other household income does not affect the amount of monthly SSDI you get.
If you are eligible for SSDI and have children under age 18, your children might also be able to get what’s called “auxiliary benefits.” The total amount of auxiliary benefits to your children is calculated based on the amount of your monthly SSDI benefit.