Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

For SSDI, you generally need to have a history of working and paying Social Security taxes. This is because SSDI is based on the work you've done in the past, so it’s not necessary for you to be currently employed when applying. However, there are certain requirements for the number of years you've worked and how much you've paid into the system:

• Work History Requirement: If you have a work history and have paid Social Security taxes for a sufficient number of years, you can apply for SSDI, even if you are no longer employed.
• Medical Eligibility: You will need to show that your disability prevents you from being able to work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Your condition must be severe enough to meet the SSA's criteria for disability.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is different from SSDI in that it is not based on your work history. SSI is designed for individuals who have limited income and resources, regardless of their employment status. If you are unemployed and have little to no income, you may be eligible for SSI if you meet the following criteria:

• Financial Need: You must meet the SSA's income and resource limits to qualify for SSI. This includes both your own income and the income of anyone living with you.
• Medical Eligibility: Like SSDI, you will need to prove that your disability prevents you from working for at least 12 months or results in death.

Key Points to Consider

• Current Employment Status: For SSDI, it’s not necessary to be employed at the time of application, but for SSI, financial need is a major factor. If you’re unemployed and have little income, you may be eligible for SSI.
• Disability Requirements: For both SSDI and SSI, you must demonstrate that you have a severe disability that meets SSA’s strict criteria. A disability must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work-related activities.