It depends on how your type of disability, as well as its severity and how long you've paid into the Social Security system. Generally speaking, the Social Security Administration runs to separate programs that pay out benefits to disabled individuals who qualify: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI or SSD). SSDI benefits are paid out of the Social Security fund, and eligible applicants must meet a work history requirement. Unlike SSI, however, SSDI doesn't depend on the income of the disabled individual receiving it — meaning a person of any income level can receive SSD benefits as long as they are living with a legitimate disability. Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI benefits are not paid out of the Social security fund. Rather, this is an income-based program that is paid via the general tax fund. There is no work history requirement to receive SSI benefits because the general purpose of this program is to provide benefits to disabled adults and children with limited means. In order to receive SSI benefits, you must earn an amount that is below the set income level.