SSDI Benefits in Pennsylvania

First, let’s consider who is eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in the first place. The entire purpose of this program is to provide financial support to people who can no longer work because they are disabled. 

To be eligible for SSDI benefits, you must:

• Have a disability that’s expected to last at least 12 months or result in your death.
• Have worked long enough and recently enough to meet work requirements.

If you meet these requirements, you can apply for SSDI or SSI.

SSDI benefits are paid monthly, and you will receive your first payment after a six-month waiting period, which starts one month after the SSA decides your disability began.

The amount of benefits you receive will vary depending on your lifetime average earnings covered by Social Security, to a certain maximum amount.

The SSA has several online calculators you can use to determine your benefits.

There are certain family members who may qualify for benefits based on your work:

• Your spouse, if he/she is 62 years of age or older or is caring for your child who is less than 16 years of age or is disabled.
• Your unmarried biological child or adopted child, and possibly your stepchild or grandchild, depending on the case. The child must be less than 18 years old or disabled to qualify.

Even an ex-spouse may qualify for benefits if you were married for at least 10 years and your ex is currently unmarried and is 62 years of age or older. Benefits paid to your spouse, ex-spouse, or children will not reduce your benefits, so it’s important to apply for any qualifying family members to ensure they receive all the support to which they’re entitled.