What is the purpose of the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program?

The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program is designed specifically to provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying disability. This program assists those who have paid into the Social Security system through their prior employment and have become disabled to the point where they can no longer perform substantial gainful activity.

The critical element of SSDI is that it serves as income replacement for those who meet the eligibility criteria, ensuring that they have financial support when they are no longer able to earn a living due to their disabilities. This program is vital because it helps individuals maintain a basic standard of living and meet their financial obligations despite their inability to work.

Other options address different scenarios, such as job loss or healthcare financing, which are outside the specific framework of SSDI. Job loss and seeking work are typically covered under unemployment insurance, while healthcare financing for disabled individuals is often addressed through Medicare or Medicaid programs, rather than SSDI directly. Therefore, the distinction lies in SSDI's focus on income support specifically for individuals with disabilities who cannot work.