What do you receive from Social Security if you're unable to work for a year or more due to disability?

When a person is unable to work for a year or more due to a disability, they can receive disability benefits from Social Security. These benefits are specifically designed to provide financial support to individuals who are unable to earn a living due to significant medical issues. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates applications for these benefits based on strict criteria regarding the nature of the disability and the individual's work history.

Disability benefits are part of the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, which not only offers financial assistance but also could eventually lead to eligibility for Medicare after a certain period of receiving these benefits. This is essential for individuals who may require ongoing medical treatment due to their disability.

Other options, such as retirement benefits, are available only when an individual reaches a certain age and chooses to retire, while unemployment benefits are intended for those who are temporarily out of work but still capable of seeking employment. Medicare coverage is primarily associated with age (65 or older), though it can become available to those receiving disability benefits after a specific waiting period. Therefore, the most appropriate financial support for someone unable to work for a year or more due to disability is indeed disability benefits.