SSD vs. SSI

Learn the difference between disability and supplemental income claims through the Social Security office.

  1. RQP Law
  2. Disability Claims

What is the difference between SSD and SSI?

The most basic difference between the Social Security Disability Insurance program (often referred to as “SSD” or “SSDI”) and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is that eligibility for SSD is based on work history, while eligibility for SSI is based on financial need. Navigating these two distinct federal benefit programs requires a deep understanding of their respective eligibility criteria, application processes, and the legal considerations that may arise.

SSD and SSI serve as crucial lifelines for individuals facing disabilities, yet they differ significantly in their funding sources, qualifying conditions, and the financial support they offer. We take pride in navigating the complexities surrounding SSD and SSI, ensuring our clients receive the tailored representation they need to secure the benefits they deserve.

Schedule a FREE consultation with our social security attorneys today.

How do I know if I’m eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Eligibility for SSD

If you meet the program’s definition of disability and have a significant work history, including recently earned “work credits,” you can be eligible for SSD. Some quick facts about the program:

    • Eligibility for Medicare benefits is generally about two years from the date it’s determined your disability began.
    • The amount of your monthly benefit is based on what you earned and paid into the system (up to a maximum monthly benefit, which changes yearly).
    • You can still work and earn up to a certain amount per month while receiving SSD.
    • Your spouse and children may also qualify for disability benefits based on your work history.

We can answer your questions about SSD  and give you the experienced advice you need throughout your case.

Eligibility for SSI

Some SSD recipients are eligible for SSI benefits as well based on their financial need. Others apply for SSI because they don’t have the work history that SSD benefits require. Some quick facts about SSI:

    • You must have countable assets that total less than the maximum individual or couple asset amounts allowed in order to be eligible.
    • Immediate medical coverage is provided through the Medicaid program.
    • The maximum monthly SSI benefit changes every year with cost-of-living adjustments.
    • Spouses and dependents are not covered unless they can meet SSI’s eligibility requirements on their own.

With extensive experience in this area, we can address your questions about SSI  and help you apply.

Understanding Social Security Disability

SSD vs. SSI

Learn the difference between social security disability and supplemental security income.

Submitting Claims Process

The social security claimes process can be confusing but we’re here to help.

Qualifying Coditions

Understand how to determine elgibility for social security disability claims.

Veterans Law

We are proud to support military veterans and help them claim the benefits they’ve earned.

Social Security Law resources from RQP Law

Schedule a FREE Consultation

A Social Security Disability attorney can help you avoid potential pitfalls and represent you before a Social Security Disability judge. If you’d like to learn how our experienced attorneys can help you maximize your benefits, let’s talk. 

We are pleased to meet with you in our Pottstown, PA primary office or any of our satellite offices

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Charlotte, NC 28209
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