There are basically two categories of disability claims; namely, Title II (Title 2 or DIB or SSDI) and Title XVI (Title 16, or SSI, or DI) claims. Within these categories, however, there are several acronyms that describe precisely which type of case it is.

Title II Claims (Claims based on an individual’s earnings record):

DIB: Disability Insurance Benefits. This is where a person claims disability based on his or her own work record and history of paying social security payroll taxes.

DAC: Disabled Adult Child. This is where a person became disabled between the ages of 18 and 22 and has a parent who is receiving social security retirement benefits, or social security disability benefits, or who is deceased but qualified for social security benefits at the time they passed away. The claimant must be unmarried to claim this type of benefits.

DWB: Disabled Widow’s (or Widower’s) Benefits: This is where a surviving spouse claims disability benefits based on his or her deceased spouse’s earnings record.

Title XVI, or SSI Claims (Needs based disability benefits, which take into account a person’s income and assets):

DI: Disabled individual. This is a claim for disability that takes into consideration a person’s income and assets.

DS: Disabled Spouse. This is a claim for disability benefits that is handled the same as a DI case; however, the acronym indicates that the person’s spouse is receiving disability benefits.

DC: Disabled Child. This is a claim for children under the age of 18 whose parents or guardian meets certain income and asset requirements.

Oftentimes a person will file both a Title II and a Title XVI claim. This is called a “concurrent” claim.

Social Security uses many acronyms, which can be confusing to a layperson. Heck, they are confusing to a non-layperson at times. However, they are probably necessary to streamline bureaucratic operations and save trees.

It is helpful for claimants in a social security disability case to consult with an attorney, who can help them navigate the sometimes difficult to understand rules and jargon that prevail. An attorney can also assist in gathering medical evidence and opinions, and presenting the case in the best way possible.

h/t https://dese.mo.gov/sites/default/files/VR-ssdclaim.pdf

(last visited February 11, 2016).

This material should not be construed as legal advice for any particular fact situation, but is intended for general informational purposes only. For advice specific to any individual situation, an experienced attorney should be contacted.