SSD and SSDI

What’s the Difference Between SSI and SSDI?

You have likely heard the terms Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). But what exactly do those terms mean, and how do they differ?

SSDI is a benefit program under which you can receive monthly payments as a result of having a medical condition that prevents you from working enough to earn a certain amount of income. SSDI survivor benefits may also be paid to survivor minor children and surviving spouses after a benefit recipient passes away. Learn more about the details of SSDI and how to start receiving benefits here. Helping you file a claim to receive SSDI benefits is one of the areas in which our West Virginia Social Security Disability attorneys specialize.

On the other hand, SSI is a program that pays benefits to low-income individuals who are aged 65 years or older, and to adults and children who are blind or have a disability (according to the same definition of disability used in SSDI cases). And whereas SSDI is funded by taxes paid by working people, SSI is financed by revenue collected by the Treasury Department to run the federal government.

In addition, SSDI is based on a claimant’s work history. Did the worker obtain enough work credits to be insured for SSDI? SSI is not based on work credits. Your SSDI monthly payment amount is based on earnings and is paid on the first of the month, while SSI has a monthly maximum, and is paid on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of the month, depending on your birthday. Also, SSDI provides Medicare, whereas SSI provides Medicaid. And, finally, SSI is affected by your resources and assets, whereas SSDI is not.

If you have a disability and would like to receive monthly financial support, you will be applying for SSDI benefits.

If you have additional questions about Social Security Disability benefits, then contact us anytime at 877.526.3457. We have an experienced team of West Virginia Social Security Disability attorneys, and one of our representatives will be happy to answer your questions. Or if you’d prefer to contact us online, please fill out this form and we will respond to you shortly.