Main Differences Between SSI & SSDI | CT Disability Benefits Laywer
You’ve likely heard of Social Security Disability Income and Supplemental Security Income, commonly referred to by their acronyms: SSI and SSDI. But while their names sound extremely similar, there are many differences between the two types of benefits.
This article by the disability attorneys at Carter Mario explains the differences in social security benefits and eligibility between SSDI and SSI.
Eligibility
Social Security Disability Income
Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) is one of the disability programs developed to help individuals suffering from mental and/or physical impairments with financial aid. SSDI is aimed at helping individuals with disabilities or circumstances which hinder their ability to perform normal job-related duties.
For someone to be eligible to qualify and receive SSDI benefits, a medical professional must have diagnosed him or her with an injury, condition, or illness that is expected to last a minimum of 12 months or that is terminal. A list of qualifying disabilities can be found in the Blue Book from the Social Security Administration.
Similar to the retirement benefits that individuals receive from Social Security, these benefits may also be gifted to the beneficiary’s children or widow(er). Additionally, individuals who have been disabled since their childhood may receive SSDI – whether or not they have worked.
Supplemental Security Income
Unlike SSDI, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program that provides benefits to adults who are disabled (under SSDI), to those who are blind, or to low-income adults 65 and older. Children who are disabled and blind can also be eligible. One of the big differences from SSDI is that SSI is only awarded to those who have limited income and assets.
Funding
The manner in which the two programs are financed also varies. SSDI receives its funding from Social Security taxes and the SSI is funded by general revenues collected by the Treasury Department.
Benefits
Social Security Disability Income
Social Security Disability benefits are based on an individual’s work record, with the amount of benefits being dependent upon their lifetime earnings. Workers can earn up to four work credits each year. In order to qualify for disability benefits, a person generally needs 40 credits although this can vary depending on a person’s age.
Supplemental Security Income
Unlike SSDI, SSI benefits do not depend on an applicant’s work record, but rather his or her resources such as personal property and bank account(s). You are not eligible for SSI if your resources exceed $2,000. If you have a significant other, your collective resources may not exceed $3,000.
The new SSI federal base amount is $783 per month per person and $1,175 per month per couple.
Consult with a Highly Qualified Connecticut SSDI Attorney
If you or a loved one is unable to work due to a disability, or if your application for SSDI has been denied, the experienced Connecticut Disability Law Attorneys at Carter Mario Law Firm can help you to fight for the benefits that you deserve. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, call us at (203) 876-2711 today!
