Summary of Benefit Programs

This program requires a person with a disability to have worked for a substantial period of employment covered by Social Security. Beginning at age 18, a dependent, adult child of a worker who is retired, disabled or deceased, may be eligible for benefits if the child became permanently disabled before age 22. Benefits may also be paid to a widow or surviving divorced spouse. SSDI is funded through the Social Security Trust Fund.

This federally funded program is based on financial need - it is not necessary for persons with disabilities to have worked under Social Security. Basic medical criteria for eligibility are the same for both SSI and SSDI. Recipients of benefits under both programs may also be eligible for Medicaid or Medicare benefits.

Medicaid is a jointly funded, Federal-State health insurance program for low-income and needy people. It covers children, the aged, blind, and/or disabled and other people who are eligible to receive federally assisted income maintenance payments. A separate application for Medicaid must be filed through the Virginia Department of Social Services (DSS).