What Is the Difference Between Social Security Disability (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
It is easy to confuse Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income. They are both managed by the Social Security Administration; however, they are very different programs. Each program offers cash benefits for those who qualify but each program has its own separate set of requirements.
What is Social Security Disability?
Social Security Disability (SSDI) is an earned benefit that an individual earns by working and contributing to the Social Security trust fund through payroll tax deductions. In order to receive Social Security Disability, the individual must be between the ages of 18 and 64 and earned the required work credits. He or she must have a physical or mental impairment that prevents the person from working. The impairment must be expected to last a minimum of 12 months; however, the person is not entitled to receive Social Security Disability benefits for the first five calendar months he or she is disabled.
The amount that you receive under SSDI is determined based on your earnings record similar to Social Security. Under SSDI, partial dependent benefits may be available to the spouse and children of the disabled person. When you apply for SSDI benefits, you may be denied. If this happens, you should contact an experienced Social Security attorney to discuss the appeals process.
What is Supplement Security Income?
Supplement Security Income (SSI) is not based on your work history. SSI is a needs-based program that is funded by general taxes. It pays benefits to low-income individuals who are 65 years or older, to disabled adults, blind adults and disabled or blind children. In order to qualify for SSI benefits, you must have limited income and resources in addition to being blind, disabled or over the age of 65.
The amount you receive under SSI will be based on financial need and it varies depending on the individual but there is a maximum federal benefit rate. It may take some time for benefits to be approved; however, you will receive retroactive benefits back to the date of your application. Just as with SSDI benefits, you may be denied but consulting with an attorney may help you make a successful appeal.
SSDI and SSI benefits are designed to assist disabled and certain low-income individuals; however, you must meet the requirements and file an application. In many cases, applications are denied the first time. When this happens, it is best to consult with an experienced Social Security attorney to discuss the appeals process. Simply because you receive a denial to your application, it does not mean that you will not be eligible to receive SSDI or SSI with some further work.
Contact an Experienced Social Security Attorney
We’ve Helped Thousands of KY Families, we can help you!
The Social Security attorneys of Musselwhite Meinhart & Staples, PSC have over 50 years of combined legal experience. If you are having trouble with your Social Security claim, we can help you. We represent clients in Hardin County, Jefferson County and throughout central Kentucky from our offices in Radcliff and Elizabethtown and Louisville.
Contact us at (270) 351-6069 or 1-800-754-HELP to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys. You may also contact our office through our convenient online contact form.