Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two programs that are administered by the Social Security Administration to provide benefits to eligible applicants. There are currently millions of Americans that rely on these programs every day. SSDI and SSI are two important programs that supply assistance to certain people that have a disability, impairment, or limited income and resources. Although the programs are similar, the programs have different eligibilities. In general, SSI is given based on age, disability, or income and SSDI is based on disabilities and work credits. As Social Security attorney, our firm handles cases concerning both SSDI and SSI.

Also known as SSD, Social Security Disability Insurance administers benefits to people that become disabled before they reach retirement age. As defined by the Social Security Administration (SSA), Social Security Disability Insurance is a federal program that provides benefits to people that are “insured”. This means that the person has worked for a specific amount of time and has paid Social Security on their payroll. The number of years that a person worked before they became disabled is also taken into consideration. In addition, the applicant must provide valid evidence of their disability that is confirmed by medical professionals and that it complies with the Social Security Administration’s definition of the disability.

Supplemental Security Income provides assisted benefits to people who are over the age of 65 or have impairments, such as blindness, and disabilities. Contrary to SSDI, this program is based on limited income and resources. Supplemental Security Income can help people receive Medicaid to help pay for medical expenses. For example, recipients may be eligible to qualify for health care coverage while on Medicaid. In some circumstances, applicants can also qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). As referred to as “food stamps,” SNAP grants benefits to individuals or families in order to pay for their food expenses. Created to assist people with limited income and resources, SSI provides monthly payments in order for people to receive daily necessities, including food, water, and shelter.

Although the programs seem similar, they differ in many ways. SSDI is funded by the disability trust fund, which is a separate account in the United States Treasury. General tax revenues fund Supplemental Security Income. Although the Social Security Administration manages this program, it is not funded by Social Security taxes. In addition to federal benefits, a majority of states provide a supplemental benefit to applicants. However, other states fund their own programs and create separate payments for their residents. As explained by the SSA, there is no state supplemental payment with the SSDI program. Both programs offer health insurance coverages to eligible applicants. SSDI focuses on supplying Medicare, while SSI provides Medicaid benefits. It is important to note that each of the programs offer specific parts of the health insurances. The Social Security Administration explains that SSDI provides hospital insurance (Part A), supplementary medical insurance (Part B), Medicare advantage (Part C), and voluntary prescription drug benefits (Part D) with their Medicare program. The SSA also states that SSI allows certain individuals to receive federally assisted income maintenance payments.

Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income are two important programs of Social Security that assist individuals that are disabled, impaired, or have a limited income. When applying for these programs, it is important to research the eligibility requirements and benefits that are required for SSDI and SSI. To find the information included in this article about SSDI and SSI or to learn more information about Social Security and other potential benefit coverages, visit the Social Security Administration’s website at www.ssa.gov for more information.

O’Connor Law has attorneys that practice in Social Security Disability claims. If you have questions regarding a Social Security Disability claim or appeal, please contact our office to speak with a professional Social Security attorney. Call our office at any time at 800-518-4LAW for a free initial consultation of your case.