Although both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are programs provided by the federal government, they differ in eligibility criteria, benefit amounts and start of pay outs.
If you are a disabled person and are searching for clarifications on which disability program to apply for, here are three key insights about SSI and SSDI that you should know about:
What is SSI?
SSI is a type of benefit that is available not just for disabled people, but for blind people and elderly people over the age of 65 as well. Approved applicants of SSI can receive financial help to cover their basic living essentials.
Since SSI is a needs-based program designed for low-income people, you will not be qualified to apply if you have a household income or countable resources that goes above the eligibility limit of $2,000 (single) or $3,000 (couples).
Countable resources refer to cash or other assets that can be converted into cash and used as a living maintenance.
What is SSDI?
SSDI is a type of benefit that provides disability assistance for people who have a certain amount of “work credits” or tax contribution from their work history. This means that the benefit you will receive will depend on the social security taxes that you have paid during your years of employment.
There are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you are legally blind, your eligibility will not require a recent employment history. If you are under the age of 24, you will need only six work credits or approximately one and a half years of employment.
When do the benefits get paid out?
If you qualify for SSI, your first SSI payment will be for the first full month after your application. However, the amount will depend on your living situation and if you have other income. Your SSI benefits may also gain an annual increase depending on the standard cost of living.
If you qualify for SSDI, you will have a six-month waiting period from the date that the social security administration determines your disability started. After this waiting period, you will start receiving your SSDI benefits.
If you are unsure of the process or in need of assistance with your application, you may seek help from legal counsel or advocates who can provide you with the support that you need to pursue the disability aid that you deserve.