Understanding The Difference Between SSI Vs. SSDI

If you are disabled and unable to work you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Unfortunately, obtaining these benefits can be challenging and many people are denied their rightful benefits on their first application. Disabled people who believe that they are eligible for SSDI and SSI should contact an experienced lawyer to guide them through the process.

Mark L. Newman, Attorney at Law, can help you get your deserved SSDI and SSI benefits. We will do everything in our power to make sure that you obtain all the benefits you are legally entitled to receive. Contact our Cincinnati law office now at (513) 533-2009 to schedule your first meeting with an attorney.

Accurately Identifying All The Benefits You Are Entitled To

The difference between SSI vs. SSDI can be difficult to understand. If you apply for the wrong type of benefits, your application may be denied, or you may receive smaller payments than you are entitled to. The medical standard of disability is the same for both programs. The primary difference is that SSDI is for individuals who have accumulated sufficient work credits, and SSI is for low-income individuals who have never worked or haven’t earned enough work credits to qualify for SSDI. Below, we’ll go into further detail regarding SSI vs. SSDI.

What is SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance is a government insurance program funded by Social Security payroll taxes. An individual is considered insured for SSDI benefits if they have worked a certain number of years and made contributions through payroll tax into the Social Security trust fund. An SSDI recipient’s spouse and minor children are entitled to receive partial dependent benefits. There is a five-month waiting period from the date you are found disabled before benefits begin. The amount of your monthly benefit depends on your earnings record. After you receive SSDI for two years you are eligible to receive Medicare benefits.

What is SSI?

Supplemental Security Income is a needs-based program based on income and assets. SSI is strictly based on financial need and is not dependent on your work history. To qualify for the SSI, you must have less than $2,000 in assets ($3,000 per couple) and very limited income. Some assets such as a home and one car are exempt. SSI benefits begin on the first day of the month when you file your application. SSI recipients are also entitled to Medicaid benefits.