Federal Disability Benefits

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People with disabilities may qualify for monthly benefits from the federal government. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has two programs you may be eligible for:

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
This program pays monthly benefits if you have a disability or blindness and have enough work history. There may also be extra benefits for family members. The benefit amount depends on your work history and earnings. Learn more about SSDI.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
This program pays monthly benefits based on your financial need. Learn more about SSI.

The Social Security Handbook has more details about these programs and benefits.

Applying for federal benefits

You apply for these benefits through the Social Security Administration.

How to apply

Tips for applying

You will need a lot of information when you apply. Get a checklist of everything you will need before you apply.
When you are ready, you can apply online. Go to the online application on the Social Security website.
If you can’t apply online, you can apply by phone or in person.

To apply by phone, call Social Security at 800-772-1213.
To apply in person, visit your local Social Security office. Call first to make an appointment.

You may have to provide documents like your birth certificate, U.S. military discharge papers, or W-2 forms. You can mail these documents or take them to a Society Security office.

After you apply

After you apply, the State of Oregon will review your application. A state office called Disability Determination Services or "DDS" will decide if you are eligible for benefits.

To check the status of your application, call DDS at 800-452-2147.
If you have a severe disability and need help to pay for housing while you wait for your decision, the General Assistance Program may provide short-term financial help.

Contacts

To apply by phone: Call Social Security at 800-772-1213.
For questions or help to apply: Contact your local Social Security office
To check the status of your application: Call Oregon Disability Determination Services at 800-452-2147.

Resources

Reporting fraud

If you think someone is committing fraud to get Social Security benefits, you can report to the Social Security Administration. Learn how to report fraud.

Laws and regulations

The Social Security Administration is in charge of the laws and regulations for SSDI and SSI benefits. The Social Security Handbook includes the regulations for these programs.

Tools for providers

The Social Security Administration has a guide called Disability Evaluation Under Social Security (also called the "Blue Book") to help health professionals understand the information they need to provide about a patient who is applying for services.