Social Security & Cash Benefits
Understand federal disability benefit programs, including SSI and SSDI, along with representative payee supports, work incentives, and planning steps for age 18.
Every section includes:
✓ Overview ✓ Eligibility ✓ How to Apply ✓ Helpful Resources
Federal Social Security programs can provide important financial and medical support for Kansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). These benefits are designed to help cover everyday needs like food, housing, healthcare, and other essential expenses. The two main programs are Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which provides needs-based cash assistance, and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which offers benefits based on work history. Understanding eligibility, how to apply, and the resources available can help families and individuals access the support they need to live more independently and securely.
This section will cover the following:
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Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI)
About
SSI is a needs-based program created under Title XVI of the Social Security Act (P.L. 92-603, 1972). It provides monthly cash assistance to individuals who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. SSI is funded by the U.S. Treasury and administered by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA).
Benefits are paid on the first day of each month. For individuals unable to manage their own benefits, the SSA requires a representative payee to manage the funds for basic needs such as food, housing, and clothing.
Eligibility
To qualify for SSI, a person must:
Be age 65 or older, blind, or have a disability (including IDD)
Have limited income and resources
Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
Live in one of the 50 states or U.S. territories
Not reside full-time in a government-paid institution
Meet other SSA program rules
How To
Apply online at the SSA website: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/
Or schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office - SSA Contact & Local Office Finder: https://www.ssa.gov/locator/
Resources
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
About
SSDI is an insurance-based program created under the Social Security Amendments of 1956 (P.L. 84-880). It provides monthly cash benefits to individuals with disabilities who have worked and paid into Social Security through payroll taxes.
SSDI is administered by the SSA, with each state’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviewing applications and medical records to confirm eligibility.
SSDI benefits start after a 5-month waiting period; the first payment is typically in the sixth month of eligibility.
In some cases, payments can be retroactive for up to 12 months if the disability began earlier.
Once a person reaches retirement age, SSDI benefits automatically convert to retirement benefits, with the same monthly amount.
Eligibility
To qualify for SSDI, a person must:
Have a disability that meets SSA’s strict definition:
Cannot perform substantial gainful activity (regular paid work sufficient to support themselves)
Cannot perform past work or adapt to new work due to their medical condition
Disability is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
Have enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security
Be younger than full retirement age (currently 67)
Some individuals may also qualify for SSDI as a Disabled Adult Child (DAC). This can apply if a parent is eligible for Social Security retirement or disability benefits, or if the parent is deceased but would have qualified for benefits based on having enough work credits (typically 40 quarters).
How To
How to Apply:
Apply online: www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability
Or call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.)
Resources
Tips for Understanding SSI and SSDI Benefits for Kansans with IDD
1. Start Early:
Families should explore SSI/SSDI eligibility well before a student turns 18. Early planning helps ensure a smooth transition to adult benefits.
2. Know the Difference:
SSI is needs-based and considers income/resources; it often helps students qualify for Medicaid and SNAP.
SSDI is earned through work history and can provide a path to retirement benefits later. Some individuals may qualify for both programs simultaneously (called “concurrent benefits”).
3. Use a Representative Payee if Needed:
For individuals who need more assistance managing their own benefits, appointing a representative payee ensures funds are used for housing, food, and essential needs.
4. Coordinate with IEP Transition Planning:
Include SSI/SSDI planning in the IEP transition process. Documenting benefits needs, work incentives, and postsecondary plans can prevent gaps in support after high school.
5. Understand Work Incentives:
SSA offers programs like the Ticket to Work or Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) that allow individuals with IDD to work while maintaining benefits. Early education on these programs prevents families from fearing loss of support.
6. Leverage Local Resources:
Kansas families can contact:
SSA local offices for application guidance
State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) for work-based planning
Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities (KCDD) for advocacy support
7. Keep Documentation Up to Date:
Maintain medical records, IEPs, and employment information. SSA uses this documentation to determine and maintain eligibility.
8. Plan for Changes at Age 18:
SSI and SSDI eligibility rules change when a student turns 18 (considered an “adult” under SSA rules). Update income, living situation, and disability documentation to prevent benefit interruptions.