One of the most frequently asked questions at Soriano Law LLC are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Are they the same? Can I apply for both? What are the differences? How can I apply? Our lawyers at Soriano Law LLC are fully experienced in these programs. Read on to learn more.
In a nutshell, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are programs that provide assistance to people who meet the requirements for disability. SSDI is an insurance program, while SSI is somewhat a “welfare” program. You may apply for benefits under both programs.
| Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) | Supplemental Security Income (SSI |
| for those who become disabled and who have “paid into the system” – or worked long enough to have paid Social Security taxes on their earnings – to receive benefits paid to you and certain family members (if insured). | for those who become disabled, have not paid into the system, and meet certain income and resource requirements to receive benefits |
| Acts as an insurance program | Acts as a welfare program |
There is a yearly Social Security statement many employees receive about how much money they would receive upon retiring and also how much they would receive per month if they were to become disabled. If not paid into the system to qualify for Social Security disability benefits, the said statement will show how many more credit hours of work needed to qualify for disability benefits.
On the other hand for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), those who have become disabled, or stopped working for a long time, and therefore have not paid enough into the system, they may still qualify for thru the SSI program. SSI is basically a welfare program for the blind, disabled and those over 65. People who have few assets and low income may also receive benefits under the SSI program – these are typically people who are indigent and therefore must qualify to meet certain low income and asset requirements.
What Are Income and Asset Limitations Of SSDI and SSI?
| Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) | Supplemental Security Income (SSI |
| No asset limitation, but the person’s compensation and/or other state or federal or insurance payments may affect your SSDI benefits | $3000 for couple
$2000 for individual *not including a home or car of any value |
| More than $1,000/month at a job is ineligible for benefits | Based on needs. If monthly countable income is over the SSI benefit amount, you are ineligible. |
Am I eligible for both?
Before applying, be ready to provide information about yourself, your medical condition, and your work. Processing time for disability applications vary depending on the nature of the disability, necessary medical evidence or examinations, and applicable quality reviews.You may be eligible for either SSDI or SSI, or some combination of the two. If you qualify for both, you may lose SSI benefits or receive a reduced SSI amount, depending on the amount of your Social Security disability benefits.
We are ready to answer your questions and help you apply.
Soriano Law LLC has experienced lawyers assisting you with SSDI and SSI. We offer free consultation, so call us now at (360) 249-6174 or email ron@sorianolawllc.com now!
