Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) vs. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Serving the Western United States

Both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are payroll tax-funded, federal insurance programs to provide money to individuals who are disabled and unable to work. These insurance programs are administered by the Social Security Administration and require the same disability criteria be met by claimants.

To qualify for SSI or SSDI, you must have a medical or physical impairment that prevents substantial gainful work activity that lasts for a continuous 12-month period or is expected to result in death. If you believe you have a qualifying disability and your claim was denied, consult a Social Security Disability benefits attorney who can review your case and help you through the appeals process.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI offers financial assistance for individuals who have become disabled or blind, and have worked enough to earn sufficient “work credits.” These credits generally mean you must have worked five continuous years in the past 10 years, though this requirement can vary if you became disabled at a young age. Individual payments are based on your past earnings record, which the SSA has on file. A disabled or blind individual must have paid Social Security taxes in order to qualify for these benefits.

The monthly payment is based on your Social Security earnings record, and typically ranges from $500 to $2,000. Once you have collected disability benefits for 24 months, you will qualify for Medicare (regardless of age). If your income is low for those two years, you may be eligible for Medicaid.

About Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI offers financial assistance to disabled, low income residents who have never worked or have not worked enough to qualify for SSDI. Program recipients are typically required to have low monthly income (averaging about $500 and $700 per month or $750 for a couple – though all state requirements vary). Assets must also be limited; worth less than $2,000 ($3,000 for a couple).

The monthly payment is based on need and will vary up to the maximum federal benefit rate. As of 2012, monthly benefit payments started at $698 for an individual and $1,048 for a couple. From this minimum amount, your state may supplement that amount, depending on cost of living, your situation, etc. Disabled children under the age of 18 can also qualify for SSI payments.

If you or someone you love has been denied disability benefits, please contact the Social Security Disability benefit attorneys at Law Offices of Fred J. Fleming today. Our talented team of SSD and SSI attorneys can help you successfully appeal your claim and collect the benefits you deserve.