The U.S. federal government offers plenty of assistance programs to help different groups of people in need. However, each of these programs has a unique way of providing support. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) programs are two government assistance options that can help people in need. These programs can offer a lot of help to their recipients, and it is simple for people to apply. You may be eligible for one of these programs without even knowing.

Understanding the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Program

As you already know by now, the federal government provides the SSI as one of its supportive programs. The United States Treasury supports this program financially through its general funds. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) of the United States is responsible for providing and managing the program. If a participant has a low income or few resources and is either elderly or with a disability, this program can help them. It can do that by providing cash to recipients, who can then use it for necessities such as groceries, shelter, and clothing.

Eligibility Requirements

Normally, this program aims to help a specific group of people, which is why it is not available to everyone. Instead, only individuals who meet the following criteria are eligible:

• A person with a qualifying disability or minimum age of 65, or being blind.
• Have a qualifying citizenship status.
• Have insufficient financial resources.

Other criteria, such as your marital status or your family status, may affect your eligibility.

Applying For SSI

Before you start the application process for the SSI program, you should first review the eligibility requirements. The eligibility criteria is available online for review. However, you can also reach out to the SSA by calling 1-800-772-1213 to apply over the phone or if you have any questions (or TTY 1-800-325-0778 in case you are hard of hearing or deaf).

You can submit an application online, by phone, or in person after verifying your eligibility. It is crucial to remember that not everyone will be eligible to apply in any of these ways. The application process in your state might be different from that in another state. Since these applications are free, it is a good idea to submit one as soon as you can.

You can also make a telephone appointment with a Social Security office representative in your area. Last but not least, if you wish to apply in person, you can call the Social Security office in your area and make an appointment there.

You should expect to provide some basic, personal information when you apply, such as:

• Personal information such as your name and social security number
• Your date of birth
• Your phone number and mailing address when applying for SSI

Understanding the Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) Program

Individuals and their qualifying family members are eligible for SSDI benefits if they are insured. A person must have worked long enough, recently enough, and paid Social Security taxes on their earnings to be insured. In addition, they must have a qualifying disability.

Applying for SSDI

Like any other program, you will have to go through an application process before you can receive SSDI benefits. There is more than one way to do so: in person, over the phone, or online. Typically, the procedure for applying for disability benefits will go like this:

• Get your information and supporting documentation ready to apply. Reviewing the Adult Disability Checklist will help you make sure that you have the appropriate documentation. You can also confirm by getting in touch with your local Social Security office.
• You may now finish your application as all of your information is in one place. Applying for SSDI is free!
• The SSA will review your application to determine your eligibility. This includes fulfilling the fundamental standards, verifying your employment history, going over previous and current work activities, etc.
• The Disability Determination Services office in your state will receive your application once it has been processed.
• At the end of your application process, your state agency will decide whether you qualify for benefits based on your condition.

To check the progress of your application you can use the “my Social Security account” feature. You can also contact the SSA by calling 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, if you are having trouble checking the progress of your application online. Moreover, you have the right to appeal if you disagree with the decision that has been made. However, you must submit a written appeal request within 60 days of getting your decision.

Information You Might Need for Your Application

You should be prepared to include a variety of information with your application. Personal information, medical condition information, and employment information are all included. When it comes to personal details, you will most likely need to provide information like the following:

• Your Social Security number and date of birth
• The names and dates of birth of all minors under the age of 18
• Financial information
• Personal details about the spouse, such as their birthdate and marital status, and so on.

You should anticipate having to provide information about your medical status, including:

• Personal information on a person who is familiar with your medical condition
• Information on your specific medical condition, including the names of your doctors, your medications, the dates of any procedures, etc.

Lastly, you should expect to provide information on your work that includes the following:

• How much you earn both last year and this year
• The name and address of each of your employers from this year and last year, as well as other personal information
• A list of the dates of employment for up to five jobs you held in the previous 15 years before being unable to work
• Information on submitted workers’ compensation claims or other related benefits (or information on cases that you plan on filing)

Who Can Receive Checks Worth $4,152?

In 2026, SSDI benefits can pay out a maximum of $4,152 per month. The maximum is only available to a small number of people. Instead, people usually get benefits that are more in line with the average, which is $1,690. You can contact the Social Security office in your area if you are interested in receiving the maximum amount. From there, they can provide you with answers to any specific questions you may have.

Bottom Line

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers some influential support programs. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two of these programs. Each program can offer assistance to those who qualify. The specifics of each program, such as who can participate and how much assistance they can receive will differ, though. Some Americans might receive payments of $4,152 per month in 2026 if they are eligible for the maximum SSDI benefit. However, relatively few people receive this amount. Instead, it is usually closer to the average of $1,690. If you have any questions, you should contact the SSA.