Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a comprehensive program designed to offer crucial support
to workers who encounter severe, long-lasting disabilities. Beyond its role in providing retirement
benefits, SSDI acts as a safety net for individuals who, due to debilitating health conditions, can no
longer perform their job duties. This safety net is particularly important for workers who might face
unexpected health challenges earlier in their careers. SSDI ensures that individuals who have
contributed to the system through payroll taxes receive financial support if they are unable to work due to
significant medical issues.
The program’s comprehensive nature is evidenced by its wide-reaching coverage, with approximately
161 million workers protected by SSDI through their contributions. Of these, around 7.3 million individuals
currently benefit from SSDI due to disabilities that impede their ability to earn a living. This extensive
coverage highlights the program’s essential role in providing financial security and support to a large
segment of the workforce, demonstrating that SSDI is a critical component of the broader Social Security
system.