The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides two disability benefits programs through which individuals can receive assistance: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI or SSD). It is important to know what is the difference between SSI and SSDI so that you can apply to the program that best suits your needs.
Our team of skilled agents is ready to answer your questions and help walk you through the steps applying for either or both programs. We have also outlined the stark differences and aspects that define each program below.
Contact us today so that a team member can help take the stress out of applying for disability benefits. Need immediate assistance applying for disability benefits? Complete this FREE evaluation form. There are no upfront costs to work with us. We only receive a fee directly from the Social Security Administration if you win your disability case – no out-of-pocket expense for you!
What is Social Security Disability Insurance?
Social Security Disability Insurance, also known as SSD or SSDI, provides benefits to disabled or blind persons who have previous workers’ contributions to Social Security. These are the facts about SSDI.
- You must meet Social Security’s disability criteria.
- Benefits are based on earnings records. This can be yours, your spouse’s, or your parents’.
- You must have the required amount of work credits.
- No income or resource limit.
- Provides benefits to eligible family members.
- Other income does NOT affect benefits.
- Where you live or who lives with you does NOT impact benefits.
What is Supplemental Security Income?
Supplemental Security Income, also referred to as SSI, is a program centered around providing assistance to individuals who have limited income and resources. The eligibility requirements include:
- You must meet Social Security’s disability criteria
- Benefits are based on need and financed by General Revenues.
- You must have limited income AND resources.
- No work credits are required.
- No family benefits are offered.
- The benefit amount is based on Federal and State laws.
- Other income MAY impact benefits – you must report any income you receive.
- Where you live or who lives with you MAY affect benefits – report all changes to the SSA.
Notable Differences Between SSDI and SSI
The main difference between SSDI and SSI is how individuals qualify:
– SSDI is based upon a specific amount of work credits, which correlates to years working in a job that contributed Social Security taxes. These credits could be earned on your own accord, or based off a spouse’s or parent’s earnings.
– SSI focuses on need-based assistance. For this reason, the qualifications are simply that you do not have access to income or resources, and that you are considered disabled.
When you contact our team, we can review with you how changes in income or living situations impact these types of benefits.
Contact Us For Assistance Applying for a Benefits Program
We know how difficult it can be to tread through the Social Security Disability application process. It is especially difficult when you are unsure which disability benefits program best suits your needs.
If you think you may qualify for one or both programs, contact us today. Our team of qualified and knowledgeable representatives will help walk you through the challenging process of applying for Social Security Disability benefits.