- 1). Determine if your disability meets Social Security Administration's definition. In order to be eligible for SSI and/or SSDI, you must have a disability that prevents you from working at any substantial gainful work activity. That disability must be expected to result in death or last at least 12 months.
- 2). Determine if you meet the administration's resource limits for the SSI program. In addition to meeting the disability criteria, a person must have less than $2,000 in cash or resources.
- 3). Determine if you qualify for a portion of SSDI based on your spouse's eligibility. If you are age 62 or older, or if you are caring for a child that is younger than 16, you and your child may qualify for an SSDI benefit because of your spouse's eligibility.
- 4). Apply for benefits if you meet the administration's disability criteria and other requirements for SSI and/or SSDI. The online application is available on the Social Security website, or you can apply in person by going to your local Social Security office. There is one application for both programs.
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