SSDI and SSI: Lifelines for Individuals with Rare or Chronic Conditions

Living with a rare or chronic health condition can be overwhelming when work becomes impossible due to complications. That’s where Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can provide much-needed relief—offering financial support and healthcare coverage.

Accessia Health offers a free legal aid program called Advocating for Chronic Conditions, Entitlements and Social Services (A.C.C.E.S.S.®). This program is designed to help individuals apply for and receive the disability assistance they deserve, with guidance from licensed legal attorneys.

Programs Overview

Both SSDI and SSI are programs administered by the Social Security Administration to support individuals with disabilities. However, they serve different purposes with distinct eligibility criteria.

  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) – Provides benefits to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but are now unable to work due to a disability. The disability must prevent substantial gainful activity and last at least one year or receive a terminal diagnosis. SSDI recipients become eligible for Medicare after two years of receiving benefits.
    • *Eligibility : Applicants must have a sufficient work history, typically requiring 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before disability onset.

 

  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – Provides financial assistance for basic needs to individuals with limited income and resources who are aged, blind, or disabled. SSI recipients may qualify for Medicaid immediately upon approval.
    • *Eligibility : Applicants must meet financial thresholds, with resources not exceeding $2,000 for singles or $3,000 for couples. No work history is required for SSI eligibility.

 

Applying for SSDI and SSI can be a complex process, but with thorough documentation, you can secure the benefits that provide essential support and improve your quality of life. Records of doctor visits, treatments, and medications strengthen your application.

  • Use the SSA’s Adult Disability Starter Kit to gather documents like birth certificates, medical records, and work history.
  • Provide detailed, accurate descriptions of your disability and its impact.

 

Accessia Health Can Help

Our A.C.C.E.S.S® program is designed to help families facing specific chronic medical conditions nationwide with disability legal aid. Program Attorneys have a proven track record of securing benefits for patients—with an impressive 85% approval rate.

Assisting patients nationwide with

  • Disability Legal Aid
  • Social Security Disability (SSDI) claims
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims

We’re here to help families understand the Social Security Disability application process. To learn more about A.C.C.E.S.S.® or to get in contact with a disability representative today, visit www.accessiahealth.org/legal-assistance/ or call us at 888-700-7010.