Federal Disability Benefits Available in Pennsylvania

Residents of Pennsylvania may qualify for one or both of the following federal programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA):

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

• Designed for individuals who have worked and paid into Social Security.
• To qualify, you must have enough “work credits” and a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months.
• Benefits are based on your past earnings and may also provide payments to certain family members.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

• Intended for individuals with limited income and resources.
• Work history is not required.
• SSI provides monthly payments to help cover basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing.

Both programs use the SSA’s definition of disability, which requires substantial proof that your condition limits your ability to perform work.

State-Based Disability Assistance in Pennsylvania

While Pennsylvania doesn’t have a separate state disability insurance program, additional support services are available:

Medical Assistance (Medicaid)

• Available to SSI recipients and some low-income SSDI recipients.
• Covers doctor visits, prescriptions, hospital stays, and other medical needs.

General Assistance (GA)

• A temporary cash benefit for low-income Pennsylvanians who don’t qualify for SSI or SSDI but are unable to work.
• Administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS).

State Supplement to SSI

• Pennsylvania may provide a small monthly supplement to individuals receiving federal SSI benefits.
• The amount depends on living arrangements and other factors.

Additional Disability-Related Resources in Pennsylvania

Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR)

• Offers employment support services for individuals with disabilities who want to return to work.
• Includes job training, career counseling, and assistive technology.

Long-Term Disability (LTD) Through Employers or Private Insurance

• If you had employer-sponsored LTD coverage, you might qualify for monthly income replacement.
• Some people also purchase individual LTD policies for added protection.

How to Apply for Disability Benefits in Pennsylvania

• Apply for SSDI or SSI through the SSA: Online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at your local Social Security office.
• Apply for General Assistance or Medicaid through the Pennsylvania DHS: Online at www.compass.state.pa.us or by contacting your local county assistance office.