The Connection Between Social Security Disability Benefits and Health Coverage Through Medicaid and Medicare

In 2021, 13 million Americans under age 65 utilized Social Security disability programs SSDI and SSI. Of these, 12.9 million people qualified for Medicare or Medicaid. Around 4.5 million beneficiaries were eligible for both health insurance programs. Monthly disability benefits for most SSDI and SSI beneficiaries were respectively nearly $1,500 and almost $650. Fewer adults, however, have been enrolling since 2014 due to various factors including demographic changes and SSA office closures during COVID-19.