Social Security Disability Benefits: SSI and SSDI

As your child gets older, you may hear about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These programs can provide monthly income and health coverage for people with disabilities. They can help your child stay safe, healthy, and more independent as they grow into adulthood.

But the two programs are different — and figuring out if your child qualifies can be confusing. This page explains what they are and how families in Ohio can get started.

What is SSI?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) gives monthly payments to people with disabilities who have low income and few resources (like money in the bank or property they own).

Your child may qualify for SSI if:

• They meet Social Security’s definition of disability.
• Your family's income and resources are below a certain amount.
• They are a U.S. citizen or meet other residency rules.

Once your child turns 18, only their own income and resources are counted, not yours. Many more people become eligible after age 18 because of this change.

If your child gets SSI, they usually qualify for Medicaid.

What is SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a different program. It gives monthly payments to people with disabilities who have a work history — or whose parents receive Social Security benefits.

Your child may qualify for SSDI if:

• They have a disability that started before age 22, and
• One of their parents is getting SSDI or Social Security retirement, or has died after working and paying into Social Security.

If your child gets SSDI, they usually qualify for Medicare after two years.

What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?

Many people qualify for one or the other — some people qualify for both.

How to Apply in Ohio

You can start by contacting your local Social Security office

For children under 18, you will need to provide:

• Information about their medical condition.
• Names of doctors, hospitals, and schools.
• Proof of income and resources.

For young adults (18+), the process is a little different. Social Security will review:

• The adult standard for disability.
• Their own income and resources (not yours).
• Whether they qualify for Child Disability Benefits based on a parent’s record.
• SSDI based on the young adult's own work record.

You can apply for SSI online at ssa.gov/ssi or in person at your local office.

Get Help with the Application

Applying can be hard, especially when gathering medical records and school reports. Here are some places that can help Ohio families:

• Disability Rights Ohio – Offers legal help for people with disabilities.
  Visit their guide on the application process for benefits.
• Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) – Helps with job supports and benefits planning.
  Visit their work incentive page to learn more.
• County Boards of Developmental Disabilities – Can help connect you to benefits counselors.
  Find your local board by visiting their website.

Explore helpful resources to learn more about benefits for people with disabilities in Ohio, such as the “Planning for Bright Tomorrows” booklet.

What if My Child is Denied?

Many people are denied the first time they apply — this does not mean your child will not qualify. You can appeal and submit more information.

Getting help from an advocate or attorney can improve your chances. Some families work with a Social Security benefits planner who understands how these programs work with school, work, and health services.