If you are not able to work due to an injury, illness, or other disability that is likely to last at least 12 months or result in death, the Social Security Administration may provide financial assistance through the Social Security disability (SSD) program. This is like insurance for workers and is funded by all workers’ Social Security paycheck taxes. In order to receive benefits, applicants must meet certain work history criteria and demonstrate they are not able to perform any type of work for an extended period of time (12 months or longer).