SSDI vs. SSI - Which One is Right For You? | Beacon Disability

SSDI vs. SSI: Which Social Security Disability Program Is Right for You?

Are you disabled and unable to work but aren’t sure if you qualify for Social Security disability benefits—or under which program you should apply?

My name is Kaitlin Wildoner, and I’m an attorney who helps disabled clients obtain their disability benefits as quickly as possible so they can focus on getting better. Today, we’re going to talk about the two Social Security disability programs, their similarities, and their differences.

The Two Social Security Disability Programs: SSDI and SSI

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) and SSI (Supplemental Security Income) are both disability benefit programs offered by the Social Security Administration. Below, I’ll break down the key points to consider when determining which program may be right for you.

✅ SSDI: Social Security Disability Insurance

1. Eligibility

SSDI eligibility is determined by your work history and the number of work credits you’ve earned through the payment of Social Security taxes.

We often say that to qualify for SSDI benefits, you must have worked for five of the last ten years.

2. Income and Assets

There are no income and asset limits for SSDI benefits.
However, your monthly benefit may be reduced if you have other sources of income.

3. Medical Eligibility

To qualify for SSDI, you must have a disability that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability.
That includes a severe and long-term condition that prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity.

4. Medicare Eligibility

After a two-year waiting period from the date of disability onset, SSDI recipients may become eligible for Medicare, which provides health insurance coverage.

5. Family Benefits

SSDI may also provide auxiliary benefits to certain family members, such as:

Dependent children
A spouse who cares for minor children

✅ SSI: Supplemental Security Income

Now switching to SSI.

1. Eligibility

SSI is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history or prior payment of Social Security taxes.

2. Income and Asset Limits

SSI has strict income and asset limits:

In 2023, the asset limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples.
The income limits are also very bright-line rules, though they can vary depending on your household size.

3. Medical Eligibility

SSI has the same medical criteria as SSDI.
You must have a severe and long-term disability that prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity.

4. Medicaid Eligibility

SSI recipients can typically qualify for Medicaid, not Medicare.

5. Additional Benefits

SSI recipients may also be eligible for additional state or local benefits, such as:

Food assistance
Housing assistance

Which Program Is Right for You?

Determining which program is right for you depends on your unique circumstances, including:

Your work history
Income and assets
Disability status

You may want to reach out directly to the Social Security Administration or a disability attorney to discuss your potential eligibility and make an informed decision based on your individual situation.

Thanks so much for watching! If you’re disabled and unable to work, click this scheduling link below or give us a call directly for a free consultation where we discuss your case and see what I can do to help you.