---
title: The Basics of Social Security Disability - Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
description: If you are no longer able to work due to a severe and lasting illness or injury, it may be time to apply for disability. The Social Security Disability (SSDI) […]
image: https://adrcofbrowncounty.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/4.22-Social-Security.png
---

# The Basics of Social Security Disability

by [ADRC](https://adrcofbrowncounty.org/author/nhopp/ "Posts by ADRC") | Mar 28, 2022 | [Blog](https://adrcofbrowncounty.org/category/blog/), [Social Security](https://adrcofbrowncounty.org/category/social-security/)

If you are no longer able to work due to a severe and lasting illness or injury, it may be time to apply for disability. The Social Security Disability (SSDI) program is a monthly benefit payment that may be available to those individuals who have been determined disabled by the Disability Determination Bureau (DDB). SSDI eligibility is based on work credits, earned through employment. The SSDI payment amount is calculated based on contributions paid through FICA payroll taxes.

**What you should know:**

- The legal definition of “disability” is: The inability to do any job due to physical or mental conditions which are expected to result in death or which have lasted, or can be expected to last, for a continuous 12 month period.
- There is no temporary or partial disability benefit programs offered by the Social Security Administration or through the State of Wisconsin.
- Wage earners can apply for disability up to one year past full retirement age.
- The disability program was designed to replace some of a worker’s income to help them meet their basic needs. The average monthly Social Security disability benefit was $1,280 in 2021.
- The Social Security Administration tries hard to prevent, detect, and help prosecute fraud. Disability fraud is investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General.
- There are programs designed to help people on SSDI return to work. Call Social Security at 1-888-562-4811 to learn more.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program eligibility and rules are different from SSDI.

Call the ADRC Benefit Specialist team at (920) 448-4300 if you would like to discuss if applying for Social Security Disability is right for you.

![Social security cards](https://adrcofbrowncounty.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/4.22-Social-Security.png "4.22 Social Security")

#### **Additional Information & Support**

We are here to help you and your family with a wide variety of community resource options. For assistance by phone, or to make an appointment, contact us.



#### (920) 448-4300 | WI Relay 711

[](mailto:bc.adrc@browncountywi.gov)

#### [bc.adrc@browncountywi.gov](mailto:bc.adrc@browncountywi.gov)

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