SSI or SSDI: Differences & What Should You Apply For?
If you’re unable to work because of a medical condition, you may be wondering whether you should apply for SSI or SSDI. These programs are both managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA), but they are not the same.
So, what’s the difference between SSI and SSDI, and can you apply for both? And, how do you know which one is right for you?
In this blog, we’ll explain the differences between SSI and SSDI and who qualifies for each. To find out how Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, can help you through the application process, contact us today.
What Is SSDI?
SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance, is a program for disabled people who have paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. If you have a strong work history and have earned enough Social Security credits, you may qualify for SSDI.
Key facts about SSDI:
- You must have a qualifying impairment that prevents you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
- You must have a work history.
- SSDI benefits are based on your work history and past earnings.
- You are eligible for Medicare after a 24-month qualifying period once you receive SSDI.
- The SSDI benefit program is funded through payroll taxes
What Is SSI?
People who have limited income and resources can apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These benefits are for those who are disabled, blind, or 65 or older. Unlike SSDI, you don’t need a work history to receive benefits. Instead, SSI eligibility focuses on your financial need.
Key facts about SSI:
- It’s income-based— your assets and income must fall below certain limits.
- You must have a qualifying impairment that prevents you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), OR be blind or aged (65 or older).
- SSI provides a basic monthly payment to help with living expenses.
- You are eligible for Medicaid (in most states) once you receive SSI.
- The SSI program is funded by general tax revenues of the U.S. Treasury.
So, Are SSI and SSDI the Same Thing?
No, SSDI and SSI are not the same. While both programs offer help to people with disabilities, they differ in many ways.
For SSDI, you must have worked and paid into the Social Security system to qualify. The amount you receive depends on how long you worked and how much you earned. Usually, SSDI monthly benefit amounts are higher than SSI payments.
SSI eligibility is based on financial need, although disabled workers can qualify. You don’t need a substantial or any previous work history to receive benefits. Because SSI is for people with limited assets and financial support, certain resources and income can impact your eligibility. These things do not affect SSDI eligibility.
You can think of SSDI as something you earn through working, while SSI is more like a safety net for those in financial need. So, if you’ve been asking, “What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?” know that it mainly comes down to how you qualify. Understanding the difference helps you figure out which program (or both) may be right for you.
Can You Get Both SSDI and SSI?
Yes, in some cases, you can receive both SSDI and SSI. This is called “concurrent benefits.” It typically applies if:
- Your SSDI payments are low (due to limited work history or low lifetime earnings), but you still qualify, AND
- You meet the income and asset limits for SSI.
In these cases, SSI may help “fill the gap” to bring you up to a basic monthly income level. Your SSDI payment will be counted as income when determining your eligibility for SSI.
Contact Drozdowski & Rabin for Help With Your Claim
At Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, we focus solely on helping people secure the Social Security Disability benefits they need. Our team brings over 100 years of combined experience to every case, and we’re proud to fight for clients across Tennessee and beyond. Our managing attorney, Emma Drozdowski Webb, is a Certified Disability Specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.
Not sure whether you qualify for SSDI, SSI, or both? We’ll review your situation and guide you through the best path forward. If you can’t make it to our office, we’ll come to you— or we can meet virtually to make the process easy and stress-free.
Whether you’re applying for the first time or appealing a denial, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts: SSI or SSDI
If you’re asking, “Should I file for SSDI or SSI— or both?”, the answer depends on your work history, your income, and your needs. To review:
- SSDI is for disabled people who have worked and paid into Social Security.
- SSI is for people with extremely limited income and resources.
- You may be able to apply for both, depending on your situation.
- These two types of disability benefits are not the same, even though both offer help to people with disabilities.
If you’re still unsure what the difference is between SSI and SSDI, or if you’re eligible, Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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