Can you explain the difference, if any between SSDI and Disabled Adult Child Benefits? For example, is the qualifying different? The calculation of benefits different? My thanks.

Hi,

There are numerous differences, but here are a few of the main ones.

Social Security disability benefits (SSDI) are payable based on the disabled individual's own earnings history. SSDI benefits can only be paid prior to a person's full retirement age (FRA), so in order to qualify for SSDI a person's disability must begin prior to their FRA. The SSDI benefit rate is calculated based on a modified version of the formula used to calculate Social Security retirement benefits, and the SSDI recipient is paid essentially equivalent of their full retirement age rate, or primary insurance amount (PIA).

Disabled adult child's (DAC) benefits are payable based on the earnings history of the disabled individual's parent. The disabled adult child's parent must be deceased or drawing their benefits in order for the child to potentially qualify for DAC benefits. The disabled adult child must have become disabled prior to age 22 in order to be eligible for DAC benefits. If a disabled adult child does qualify for DAC benefits, their benefit rate is based on either 50% of the parent's PIA if the parent is living, or 75% of the parent's PIA if the parent is deceased.

Best, Jerry