Qualifying for SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

SSI is a need-based program that provides financial assistance to people who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older, and have limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require a work history, but eligibility is based on financial need.

Eligibility Criteria for SSI

• Disability or Age:
• You must be disabled, blind, or at least 65 years old.
• To qualify as disabled, your medical condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working and is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.
• The SSA’s Listing of Impairments outlines specific medical conditions that automatically qualify, but you can also qualify if your condition prevents you from working.

• Income:
• SSI is for individuals with limited income. Your total monthly income must fall below a certain level, which varies by the federal guidelines and where you live. Income includes wages, pensions, Social Security benefits, and other sources of financial support.

• Resources:
• You must have limited resources (assets). The SSA sets limits on how much you can own in terms of resources like cash, savings, and property. Generally, an individual must have less than $2,000 in resources, and a couple must have less than $3,000.

• U.S. Citizenship or Eligible Non-Citizen Status:
• To qualify for SSI, you must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen (e.g., a lawful permanent resident).

How to Apply for SSI:

• Online: You can apply for SSI online through the SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov.
• By Phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to apply over the phone.
• In-Person: Visit your local Social Security office to apply in person.

Qualifying for SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)

SSDI provides benefits to individuals who are disabled and have worked and paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. SSDI benefits are available to workers who have earned enough work credits throughout their career.

Eligibility Criteria for SSDI

• Disability:
• Like SSI, you must have a disability that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. SSDI is only for those with disabilities that meet the SSA’s strict medical criteria.
• You can qualify if you have a medical condition that is listed in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments, or if your condition is severe enough to prevent you from performing basic work tasks.

• Work History and Credits:
• To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked and paid into Social Security for a certain number of years.
• Work credits are earned through your work history, and the number you need depends on your age at the time of disability. Generally, you need to have worked for at least 5 of the last 10 years before becoming disabled.
• The number of credits you need varies by age:
• Under 24: You need 6 credits earned in the 3 years prior to becoming disabled.
• 24-31: You need 12 credits earned in the 6 years prior to becoming disabled.
• 32 and older: You need 20 credits, with 20 of them earned in the 10 years prior to becoming disabled.

• Earning a Sufficient Income:
• The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold determines whether you are earning too much to qualify for SSDI. If you are working and earning above a certain monthly amount, you may be disqualified for benefits.
• For 2025, the SGA limit is typically $1,470 per month (or $2,460 for blind individuals). If you are earning more than this amount, you may not qualify for SSDI benefits.

• U.S. Citizenship or Eligible Non-Citizen Status:
• Similar to SSI, you must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen to qualify for SSDI.

How to Apply for SSDI:

• Online: Apply for SSDI benefits online through the SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov.
• By Phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to apply over the phone.
• In-Person: Visit your local Social Security office to apply in person.