What is SSI (Supplemental Security Income)?

SSI is a needs-based program, meaning it is designed to provide financial assistance to people who are disabled, blind, or elderly and have limited income and resources. It’s not based on your work history. Instead, SSI eligibility focuses on:

• Income: Your income must be below a certain level, including wages, pensions, or other sources of financial support.
• Resources: You must have less than $2,000 in resources as an individual or less than $3,000 as a couple. Some assets like your home and car may not be counted toward this limit.
• Disability: You must meet the SSA’s definition of disability, which means you are unable to work due to a physical or mental condition expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.

What is SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)?

SSDI is a work-based program, and eligibility depends on your work history and how much you’ve paid into Social Security through FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) taxes during your working years. To qualify for SSDI, you need to:

• Have a sufficient work history (usually 5 years of work in the last 10 years, but this depends on your age at the time of your disability).
• Have a disabling condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.

Unlike SSI, SSDI is not based on your current income or resources, but rather on the work history and your previous Social Security contributions.

Can I Qualify for Both SSI and SSDI?

Yes, it is possible to qualify for both SSI and SSDI, but this depends on your specific circumstances. Here’s how:

a. Meeting the Requirements for Both Programs

• SSDI First: If you qualify for SSDI due to your disability, but your monthly SSDI benefit is too low to meet the living requirements, you may qualify for SSI as well. For example, if you’re eligible for SSDI but your monthly payment is less than the federal SSI payment amount, you could receive SSI to supplement your SSDI income.
• Concurrent Benefits: The SSA can approve you for both SSDI and SSI simultaneously if you meet the financial need criteria for SSI and the work history criteria for SSDI. This is more common for individuals who have worked but have very limited income or resources. In this case, your SSDI payment will typically be reduced by the amount of SSI you are entitled to, but you will still receive some assistance through both programs.
  
  

b. SSDI as a Primary Source of Income

If your SSDI payment is high enough to cover your living expenses, you may not be eligible for SSI. However, if your SSDI is low and you meet the income and resource requirements for SSI, you could still qualify for additional SSI benefits.

How the SSA Determines Eligibility for Concurrent Benefits

The Social Security Administration (SSA)  will review your SSDI  eligibility based on your work history and your disability status, while they’ll look at your income and resources  to determine whether you meet the requirements for SSI. If you're eligible for both programs, the SSA will calculate your total benefits  based on your SSDI payment and any additional SSI support you may need.

Important Notes About Concurrent Benefits:

• Income and Resource Limits for SSI: Even if you qualify for SSDI, if your total resources or income are above the SSI limits (generally $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples), you won’t qualify for SSI.
• SSI Payment Reduction: If you're approved for both programs, the SSI benefit may be reduced based on the amount of your SSDI payment. The SSA will subtract part of your SSDI from the SSI benefit, and you’ll receive the difference.

The Benefits of Concurrent SSI and SSDI

Qualifying for both SSI and SSDI can provide a combination of financial support. Here’s how these benefits can help:

• Comprehensive Financial Assistance: SSDI provides monthly benefits based on your work history, while SSI can offer additional financial support if your SSDI amount doesn’t meet the minimum living requirements.
• Healthcare Support: If you're approved for SSDI, you will become eligible for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period. If you qualify for SSI, you may be eligible for Medicaid, which provides health coverage to low-income individuals.

How to Apply for SSI and SSDI

You can apply for SSI and SSDI either at the same time or separately. The process includes:

• Apply Online: The easiest way to apply is through the SSA’s online application system at www.ssa.gov.
• In-Person or by Phone: You can also apply at your local Social Security office or by calling 1-800-772-1213.

When applying, be prepared to provide:

• Medical records that document your disability.
• Work history for SSDI or financial documents for SSI.
• Identification and proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency.

Get Help with Your Application

Applying for SSI and SSDI can be a complex process. If you’re unsure whether you qualify or need help with your application, consider working with an experienced disability lawyer or advocate. They can help you:

• Navigate the application process.
• Gather the necessary medical and financial documentation.
• Appeal a denial or assist with the reconsideration or hearing process.