When people talk about Social Security, most think about retirement payments. But Social Security offers several other benefits too, including disability insurance, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and benefits for survivors and families. Not everyone qualifies for all these benefits, and sometimes, they may not be enough on their own. You might even qualify for more than one type of benefit at the same time.
Types of Benefits
Social Security Retirement Benefits
To qualify for retirement benefits, you need to earn 40 work credits. You get one work credit for every $1,730 you earn in 2024. Generally, it takes about 10 years of work to get these 40 credits.
Disability Insurance
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for people who have worked for a minimum number of years and paid enough taxes. You also need to have a disability that meets the SSA’s strict criteria. For example, if you want to claim SSDI at age 60, you must have worked for at least 9.5 years. Younger individuals can qualify with fewer work credits.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is for low-income Americans who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 and older. Some people who receive retirement or SSDI benefits may also qualify for SSI if their income and resources are limited.
Survivors and Family Benefits
When a worker dies, their family members, like spouses and children, may get benefits based on the worker’s record. They might also receive a lump sum payment. Additionally, when a worker is eligible for retirement or SSDI benefits, their family members might also get monthly payments.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Retirement Benefits | Requires 40 work credits, typically accumulated over 10 years of work. One credit is earned for every $1,730 earned in 2024. |
| Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) | Available to individuals who have worked a minimum number of years and paid sufficient taxes. Must have a qualifying disability. |
| Supplemental Security Income (SSI) | For low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or at least 65 years old. Eligibility depends on income and resource limits. |
| Survivors Benefits | Provided to family members of a deceased worker, including spouses, children, and other dependents. May include a lump sum and/or monthly payments. |
| Family Benefits | Offered to family members of workers eligible for retirement or SSDI, including monthly payments for spouses and children. |
| Work Credits | Required for retirement and SSDI benefits. One credit is earned for every $1,730 of earnings in 2024. 40 credits needed for retirement benefits. |
| Eligibility for SSDI | Requires a sufficient work history and a qualifying disability. The number of work credits needed depends on age at disability onset. |
| Eligibility for SSI | Must be disabled, blind, or aged 65+, with limited income and resources. |
| Checking Eligibility | Use the SSA’s benefit calculator tools and Social Security Statement to determine potential benefits and eligibility. |
| Applying for Benefits | Apply through the SSA online, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office to start the benefits process. |
Requirements
Earning Work Credits
To qualify for retirement and disability benefits, you need to earn work credits:
- Work Credits: One credit for every $1,730 earned in 2024.
- Retirement Benefits: Requires 40 work credits, usually from about 10 years of work.
- SSDI: Needs a sufficient work history and a qualifying disability.
SSI Eligibility
SSI is for people who meet specific criteria:
- Disability or Blindness: Must have a qualifying condition.
- Age: Must be at least 65 years old.
- Income and Resources: Must meet low-income limits.
Survivors and Family Benefits
Family members can receive benefits if certain conditions are met:
- Survivors Benefits: Available to spouses, children, and other family members of a deceased worker.
- Family Benefits: Spouses and children of workers eligible for retirement or SSDI may get monthly payments.
Checking Your Eligibility
To make sure you get the benefits you qualify for, use the SSA’s benefit calculator tools. You can also check your Social Security Statement to see potential payment amounts and eligibility for different benefits.
FAQs
FAQs
What are the main types of Social Security benefits?
The main types of Social Security benefits include retirement benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and survivors and family benefits.
How can I qualify for Social Security retirement benefits?
To qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, you need to earn 40 work credits. You earn one work credit for every $1,730 you earn in 2024. Typically, it takes about 10 years of work to accumulate these credits.
What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and how do I qualify?
SSDI provides benefits to individuals who have worked for a minimum number of years, paid enough into the Social Security system, and have a qualifying disability. The disability must meet the SSA’s strict criteria.
Who is eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
SSI is for low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or at least 65 years old. Eligibility also depends on meeting certain income and resource limits.
Understanding Social Security benefits can be complicated. Knowing the different types of benefits and their requirements is the first step toward making the most of what the system offers. Whether you’re planning for retirement, dealing with a disability, or managing the loss of a loved one, Social Security provides important support for many Americans.
