Social Security pays benefits to people who cannot work because they have a condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Federal law requires this very strict definition of disability. While some programs give money to people with partial disability or short-term disability, Social Security does not.
Certain family members of disabled workers also can receive money from Social Security.
To begin the proces of determining whether or not you qualify for Social Security based on a disability, you will need to apply directly to the US Social Security Administration (SSA). Review How to Apply for Social Security Disability and SSI Benefits for more information.
The District’s Disability Determination Division processes claims for Social Security Disability Insurance determinations. Once DDD finishes this process, we will return the claim is returned to SSA. If the determination was unfavorable, an appeal would need to be filed with the SSA and the DDD will then re-examine the claim. Find out more about the determination process.
The following publications and websites provide additional information about Social Security: