Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

A federal program providing financial assistance to individuals with disabilities who are unable to work due to a qualifying medical condition, administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Disability Determination Services (DDS):

State agencies that collaborate with the SSA to evaluate and determine eligibility for SSDI benefits based on medical evidence and other relevant information.

 

Work Credits:

Units used by the SSA to measure an individual’s work history and eligibility for SSDI, earned through paying Social Security taxes during periods of employment.

 

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA):

A threshold set by the SSA to define the level of work activity considered substantial, influencing eligibility for SSDI benefits.

 

Trial Work Period (TWP):

A period during which SSDI recipients can test their ability to work without risking loss of benefits, allowing for a gradual return to employment.

 

Medical Vocational Allowance:

An approval for SSDI benefits based on a combination of medical conditions and vocational factors, considering an individual’s ability to perform work-related activities.

Compassionate Allowances:

An expedited SSDI claims process for individuals with severe and easily identifiable medical conditions, ensuring faster access to benefits.

 

Continuing Disability Review (CDR):

Periodic reviews conducted by the SSA to assess whether SSDI recipients still meet the criteria for disability, influencing the continuation of benefit payments.

 

Ticket to Work Program:

An initiative encouraging SSDI recipients to re-enter the workforce by providing vocational rehabilitation services, training, and other support.