When you have been diagnosed with a disability that can affect how you earn a living, friends and family may mention SSI or SSDI. But do you know the difference between them, or where they overlap?
The differences between Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance(SSDI) and other forms of supplemental income are significant. It is possible to receive both, and some individuals may qualify for Medicaid or Medicare, depending on how long your coverage lasts. A local SSDI attorney can explain the differences and guide you through applications for both types of disability assistance when you need financial help.
SSDI vs. Supplemental Security
For Huntington, WV applicants, the primary difference between SSDI and SSI is how you qualify for each program. SSI is a needs-based program. As the name implies, it is additional income for those with little or no income. Blind, elderly, or disabled individuals qualify for SSI, and it also comes with Medicaid coverage.
SSDI is a work-related benefit for those with a recent work history who are now unable to work, or for whom full employment might be made difficult, because of a disabling condition or illness. The amount of your SSDI payments depends on how long you have worked, not on your present income.
Requirements for Supplemental Security Income
SSI is means-tested. It provides monthly payments for those who did not work or who cannot work because of a “disabling condition,” or who are elderly or in some cases too young to work. If you are of retirement age, you do not need a disability to apply for SSI.
To qualify, you must be unable to “engage in substantial gainful activity” due to your condition, and your total assets must be below the SSA’s required amount. The SSA considers all income and assets when calculating SSI, including other forms of income, bank accounts, real property (except your home), stocks or bonds, and so on.
SSI also considers any support you may receive like housing, food, or medical care at no cost. Some benefits, like SNAP and income tax returns, are not part of your SSI calculations.
Requirements for SSDI
SSDI only requires that you have worked in a job which deducted Social Security benefits. You must be unable to work or have your full work potential diminished because of a qualifying “disabling condition,” which may have existed before you filed for benefits or due to a job related injury.
Other forms of income, other disability payments, property, passive income, and so forth, do not affect your SSDI payments. The amount is based on your average monthly income during your period of employment. SSDI recipients can qualify for Medicare after 24 months, and there is no waiting period for ALS patients.
Call Us in Huntington to Learn More About the Differences Between SSDI and SSI Benefits
Navigating the difference between SSDI and SSI applications and payments in Huntington can be difficult. You need the assistance of a skilled Social Security attorney like those at Jan Dils Attorneys at Law. We will explain what type of supplemental income you qualify for, and what you need to do to file for each type of benefit. We are the nation’s largest female-founded law firm and handle SSDI claims across the country.
