Understanding SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

What is SSI?

SSI is a needs-based program designed to provide financial support to low-income individuals who are elderly, blind, or disabled. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require a work history or contributions to Social Security. The program is primarily aimed at helping individuals with limited resources and income to meet their basic needs for food, shelter, and clothing.

Eligibility for SSI

To qualify for SSI, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Disability: You must have a physical or mental condition that significantly limits your ability to work or perform basic daily activities.
• Income and Resources: You must have limited income and resources. The SSA sets a specific income limit, and your total assets (savings, property, etc.) must also be below a certain threshold.
• Age or Blindness: While SSI is primarily for disabled individuals, it can also provide assistance to individuals aged 65 or older or those who are legally blind.

Benefits and Payments

SSI benefits are generally smaller than SSDI benefits because they are based on need, not work history. The amount you receive depends on your income, living situation, and the state in which you reside.

Understanding SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)

What is SSDI?

SSDI is a federal program designed to provide financial assistance to individuals with disabilities who have worked and paid into the Social Security system. The program is intended to help those who are unable to work due to a qualifying disability but have a history of employment and Social Security tax contributions.

Eligibility for SSDI

To qualify for SSDI, you must meet these criteria:

• Disability: You must have a condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.
• Work History: Unlike SSI, SSDI requires you to have worked a sufficient number of years and paid Social Security taxes. The number of work credits required varies depending on your age at the time of your disability.
• Age: SSDI is available to individuals under 65. If you are 65 or older, you may qualify for Social Security retirement benefits instead.

Benefits and Payments

SSDI benefits are based on your past earnings and Social Security tax contributions. The more you’ve earned over your working life, the higher your monthly SSDI payment is likely to be. The payment amount is fixed based on your work history.

Understanding SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)

1. Eligibility Requirements

• SSI is a needs-based program and does not require a work history, only a disability and limited income and resources.
• SSDI requires a work history and Social Security tax contributions to qualify, along with proof of disability.

2. Payment Amounts

• SSI provides lower benefit payments based on need, while SSDI payments are higher and based on your work history and earnings.



3. Income and Resource Limits

• SSI has strict income and asset limits that determine eligibility, while SSDI does not have income limits as long as you have a sufficient work history.