SSDI 101: Breaking Down the Terminology

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with technical language and legal jargon. At Green and Greenberg, we’re dedicated to making the process clear and accessible for all of our clients. To help you feel more confident in your application process, we’ve put together a simple glossary of common SSDI and SSI terms. By understanding these terms, you’ll be better prepared for the steps involved—and you’ll see how our team can help simplify each part.

Key SSDI and SSI Terms You Should Know

1. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): SSDI is a federal insurance program that provides benefits to people who cannot work due to a severe, long-term disability. Unlike SSI, SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security contributions.
2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and resources. It provides financial support to people who are disabled, blind, or elderly. SSI eligibility is based on income, not work history.
3. Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): SGA is the level of work activity and earnings that determine if someone qualifies as disabled. In 2024, if you earn more than $1,470 per month (or $2,460 for the blind), you may not qualify for SSDI.
4. Listing of Impairments: The Listing of Impairments, also known as the “Blue Book,” is a guide used by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that outlines medical conditions and criteria that automatically qualify for disability benefits.
5. Residual Functional Capacity (RFC): An RFC assessment determines what activities you can still do despite your limitations. If you can no longer perform previous work or adjust to other work, your RFC will help support your claim for disability.
6. Date Last Insured (DLI): DLI is the last date you are eligible for SSDI benefits based on your work credits. To receive SSDI, you must prove your disability started before or on your DLI.
7. Onset Date: This is the date you first became unable to work due to your disability. It’s important because it can affect the amount of your back pay and when your benefits start.
8. Claimant: A claimant is the person applying for disability benefits. In this case, if you’re filing for SSDI or SSI, you are the claimant.
9. Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If your initial application is denied, you may request a hearing with an ALJ. The ALJ will review your case, listen to your testimony, and determine if you qualify for benefits.
10. Medical Vocational Guidelines (“The Grid”): The Grid is used to evaluate a claimant’s ability to perform different types of work based on age, education, and work history. It helps decide if you qualify for benefits if your condition doesn’t meet the strict criteria in the Blue Book.
11. Medical Evidence: This refers to the documentation required to support your claim, including medical records, doctors’ notes, and test results. At Green and Greenberg, we help collect and organize the complete medical records needed for a strong application.
12. Continuing Disability Review (CDR): A CDR is a periodic review by the SSA to determine if you still qualify for benefits. The frequency of reviews depends on the likelihood of medical improvement.
13. Trial Work Period (TWP): This program allows SSDI beneficiaries to test their ability to work without losing their benefits. During a nine-month period, you can earn above the SGA limit without affecting your eligibility.
14. Overpayment: An overpayment occurs when the SSA pays more benefits than you are entitled to receive. Overpayments must be repaid, but in some cases, they can be waived.
15. Appeal: If your SSDI or SSI application is denied, you have the right to appeal. The process includes multiple levels: reconsideration, hearing by an ALJ, Appeals Council, and federal court. Green and Greenberg supports clients through each step of this complex process.

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With over 30 years of experience in disability law, Green and Greenberg is here to support you through each step of your SSDI journey. Whether you’re applying, appealing, or preparing for a hearing, we have the expertise to make a difference in your case. Visit our Disability Blog for more articles, or contact us directly to discuss your situation.