Living with a disability can be challenging, especially when it prevents you from working and earning a steady income. Fortunately, the United States government offers two programs designed to provide financial assistance to individuals with disabilities: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). While both programs aim to help those in need, they have distinct difference between SSI and SSDI in terms of eligibility, benefits, and application processes.
The Basics of SSI and SSDI
Before we delve into the difference between SSI and SSDI, let’s establish a foundation by explaining what each program entails.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program that provides financial support to individuals who are aged 65 or older, blind, or disabled, and have limited income and resources. SSI is funded by general tax revenues and is designed to help recipients meet their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter.
On the other hand, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is an insurance program that provides benefits to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a sufficient period of time and are now unable to work due to a disability. SSDI is funded through payroll taxes, and the amount of benefits an individual receives is based on their average lifetime earnings before the onset of their disability.
The Main Difference Between SSDI and SSI
Now that we have a basic understanding of SSI and SSDI, let’s explore the main differences between the two programs.
Eligibility Criteria
SSDI eligibility is based on your work history and the amount of Social Security taxes you’ve paid over the years. To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked long enough and recently enough to have earned a sufficient number of work credits. The number of work credits required depends on your age when you become disabled.
SSI eligibility is based on your financial need and disability status. To qualify for SSI, you must have limited income and resources and be either aged 65 or older, blind, or disabled. There is no work history requirement for SSI.
Income and Resource Limits
SSI has strict income and resource limits. Income includes wages, Social Security benefits, pensions, and other sources. Resources include cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and property (excluding your primary residence). SSDI does not have income limits, but it does consider your ability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA).
Funding Sources
SSDI is funded through payroll taxes. As you work and pay Social Security taxes, you earn work credits that count towards your SSDI eligibility. SSI is funded by general tax revenues, not Social Security taxes. This means that SSI benefits are not tied to your work history or the amount of Social Security taxes you’ve paid.
How Much Do Benefits Pay Out?
The amount of benefits you receive from SSI or SSDI can vary significantly depending on your specific situation. For SSDI, benefit amounts are based on your average lifetime earnings before your disability began. The Social Security Administration uses a complex formula to calculate your benefits, taking into account factors such as your age, past earnings, and the number of years you’ve worked.
SSI benefits are based on the federal benefit rate (FBR), which is set by the government and adjusted annually for cost-of-living increases. It’s important to note that both SSI and SSDI benefits may be subject to taxes, depending on your overall income and filing status.
When Your Benefits Would Start
The timeline for receiving SSI or SSDI benefits can also differ, so it’s essential to understand when you can expect your payments to begin if your application is approved.
If you are approved for SSDI, your benefits will start after a five-month waiting period from the date your disability began. This means that if your disability began on January 1st and you were approved for SSDI, your first payment would be for the month of June. SSDI benefits are paid in the month following the month they are due, so you would receive your June payment in July.
For SSI, benefits generally start on the first of the month after you submit your application, if you’re found eligible. For example, if you apply for SSI on April 15th and are approved, your benefits would begin on May 1st. SSI benefits are paid on the first of each month.
Choosing SSI or SSDI for Your Situation
Deciding between SSI and SSDI can be challenging, as the best program for you depends on your unique circumstances. Here are some factors to consider when determining which program to apply for:
- Work History: If you have a sufficient work history and have paid Social Security taxes, SSDI may be the better option. If you have limited or no work history, SSI might be more appropriate.
- Income and Resources: If you have limited income and resources and meet the SSI eligibility criteria, SSI may be the right choice. If your income and resources exceed the SSI limits, but you have a strong work history, SSDI might be a better fit.
- Benefit Amount: Consider the potential benefit amount you may receive under each program. SSDI benefits are typically higher than SSI benefits, but this can vary depending on your work history and income.
- Eligibility for Other Benefits: In some cases, eligibility for SSI can also make you eligible for other benefits, such as Medicaid. SSDI recipients are automatically enrolled in Medicare after a 24-month waiting period.
It’s possible to be eligible for both SSI and SSDI simultaneously. If you qualify for both programs, you will receive SSDI benefits first, and your SSI benefits will be reduced by the amount of your SSDI payment.
Contact Benefits Claim to Learn More About the Difference Between SSI and SSDI and Start Your Claim
Our knowledgeable and compassionate professionals have years of experience assisting individuals with disabilities in understanding their options and securing the benefits they deserve.
Don’t let confusion about SSI and SSDI prevent you from seeking the financial assistance you need. Contact Benefits Claim today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you start your claim. Our dedicated team is here to answer your questions, provide guidance, and support you throughout the entire process.
