Social security disability insurance, or SSDI, is a benefits program that pays you and, in certain cases, family members if you meet the qualifications. For example, you must have worked for a specified period and earned sufficient work credits through the SSA. In addition, your injury must result in a disability that prevents you from working for at least a year or longer or will eventually result in your death. SSDI benefits can also be available to surviving family members if you die from your injuries.