Legal Definitions - OASDHI

OASDHI stands for Old Age, Survivors, Disability, and Health Insurance.

OASDHI is the comprehensive federal program in the United States that provides social insurance benefits. It encompasses what is commonly known as Social Security (which covers old age, survivors, and disability benefits) and Medicare (which provides health insurance for eligible individuals). Essentially, it's the system through which workers contribute a portion of their earnings to fund benefits for retirees, people with disabilities, surviving family members of deceased workers, and healthcare for the elderly and certain disabled individuals.

Here are some examples illustrating OASDHI:

• Example 1: Retirement Benefits

  After working for over 40 years, Maria decides to retire at age 67. She begins receiving monthly payments from the government, which help cover her living expenses. These payments are part of the "Old Age" component of OASDHI, providing financial support to individuals who have reached retirement age and contributed to the system throughout their working lives.

• Example 2: Survivor Benefits

  When David, a father of two young children, tragically passes away unexpectedly, his wife, Sarah, applies for benefits. Because David had worked and paid into the system for many years, Sarah and their children are eligible to receive monthly payments. This support falls under the "Survivors" part of OASDHI, ensuring that dependents of a deceased worker receive financial assistance.

• Example 3: Disability and Health Insurance

  Mark develops a severe neurological condition that prevents him from continuing his job as an architect. After a thorough application process, he is approved for monthly disability payments. A few years later, due to his long-term disability status, he also becomes eligible for Medicare coverage to help with his extensive medical bills. Mark's situation demonstrates both the "Disability" and "Health Insurance" (Medicare) aspects of OASDHI, providing income replacement and healthcare coverage for those unable to work due to a qualifying disability.