What is SSI?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program designed to provide financial assistance to people who have limited income and resources and are either disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older.

• Eligibility:
• Income and Resources: To qualify for SSI, your income must be below a certain level, and you must have very limited resources (such as savings, assets, or property).
• Work History: SSI does not require a work history. Even if you’ve never worked or paid into Social Security, you may still be eligible if you meet the income and disability criteria.
• Disability or Age: You must be disabled, blind, or 65 or older to qualify for SSI.
• How Much You Can Receive: SSI benefits vary based on your income, where you live, and other factors. The federal SSI payment amount is set, but many states add extra benefits on top of the federal amount.

What is SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program that provides benefits to people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes and are now unable to work due to a disability.

• Eligibility:
• Work History: To qualify for SSDI, you need to have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years. The number of years you need to work depends on your age at the time of your disability.
• Disability: You must have a disability that prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA). The disability must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
• Work Credits: SSDI uses a work credit system. You can earn up to four work credits per year. Generally, you need 40 credits, with 20 of them earned in the last 10 years, to qualify for SSDI.
• How Much You Can Receive: The amount you can receive in SSDI benefits depends on your average lifetime earnings. SSDI benefits are typically higher than SSI because they are based on your work history and the taxes you paid into the system.

Key Differences Between SSI and SSDI

Eligibility Requirements

• SSI: Based on income and resources, not work history.
• SSDI: Based on work history and Social Security tax contributions.

Work History

• SSI: No work history required.
• SSDI: A work history is required; you must have paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years.

Financial Need

• SSI: Needs-based, designed for those with limited income and resources.
• SSDI: Not needs-based. You qualify based on your work history, regardless of income and assets (as long as you meet the disability requirements).

Amount of Benefits

• SSI: The benefit amount is lower and based on your financial need and the state you live in.
• SSDI: The benefit amount is higher and based on your average lifetime earnings.

Eligibility for Other Benefits

• SSI: Since SSI is a needs-based program, those receiving SSI benefits may also qualify for Medicaid in most states, which provides healthcare coverage for low-income individuals.
• SSDI: If you qualify for SSDI, you may become eligible for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period.

How to Apply for SSI and SSDI

Both SSI and SSDI applications can be completed online, over the phone, or in person at your local Social Security office.

• For SSI: You must apply online (through the SSA website), by phone, or in person at your local office. The application will ask about your income, resources, and medical condition.
• For SSDI: You can apply online, by phone, or by visiting a local Social Security office. You will need to provide information about your work history, your condition, and how it affects your ability to work.