Puerto Rico law

Social Security Disability Laws in Puerto Rico.

SSDI and SSI federal programs apply in Puerto Rico but with important differences. SSDI applies normally to PR residents with sufficient work credits. However, SSI (Supplemental Security Income) does NOT apply in Puerto Rico — instead, Puerto Rico operates a federally-subsidized Aid to the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (AABD) program with lower benefit amounts. U.S. Supreme Court upheld the SSI exclusion of Puerto Rico residents in United States v. Vaello Madero (2022). Puerto Rico claimants appeal through the SSA field office in San Juan and Administrative Law Judge hearings.

Last verified: 2026-04-17

State law

Key Puerto Rico Statutes

SSDI Eligibility (Applies in PR)42 U.S.C. § 423

SSDI applies normally to Puerto Rico residents with sufficient work credits and a medically determinable impairment.

SSI Does NOT Apply in Puerto Rico42 U.S.C. § 1382c(a)(1)(B)(i); United States v. Vaello Madero, 596 U.S. 159 (2022)

Federal SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is NOT available in Puerto Rico. The U.S. Supreme Court upheld this statutory exclusion in Vaello Madero (2022). Puerto Rico instead operates the smaller AABD program.

Aid to the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (AABD)Act No. 197-1973 et seq.; 42 U.S.C. § 1381

Puerto Rico's federally-subsidized alternative to SSI. Benefits are lower than SSI ($82/month for individual vs. $967 SSI federal). Administered by the PR Department of Family.

State law

Official Sources

Social Security Administration PR Department of Family (AABD)

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Puerto Rico.

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