What is the Difference Between Social Security and SSI?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two different programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Here are the key differences between the two:
Social Security:
- Social Security is an entitlement program, meaning workers qualify for benefits based on their work history (or their spouse or parent's work history).
- Benefits are based on earnings, and the amount of the benefit is determined by the individual's work history.
- Social Security taxes, paid by employees and employers, fund the program.
- In most cases, a person's eligibility for Social Security is not affected by their income or resources.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI):
- SSI is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources who are blind, aged 65 or older, or have a qualifying disability.
- SSI benefits are not based on prior work or a family member's prior work.
- The program is financed by general funds of the U.S. Treasury, including personal income taxes, corporate taxes, and other taxes.
- Eligibility for SSI is affected by income and resources, and recipients must report changes in their living arrangements and income.
It is possible for an individual to receive both Social Security and SSI benefits if they meet the eligibility requirements for both programs.
On this pageWhat is the Difference Between Social Security and SSI? Comparative Table: Social Security vs SSI
Comparative Table: Social Security vs SSI
Here is a table summarizing the differences between Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI):
| Feature | Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) | Supplemental Security Income (SSI) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Provides benefits for disabled workers and their dependents, based on prior work | Provides benefits for low-income aged, blind, and disabled individuals, with no work requirement |
| Funding | Financed by Social Security taxes collected under the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) | Financed by general funds of the U.S. Treasury, including personal income taxes, corporate taxes, and other taxes |
| Eligibility | Based on prior work or family member's prior work | Not based on prior work; for people with limited income and resources who are blind, aged 65 or older, or have a qualifying disability |
| Medical Assistance | Most states offer medical assistance (Medicaid) to SSI recipients | Medicare benefits may be available for SSDI recipients |
| Income and Resource Limits | No specific income limit, but monthly benefits depend on the individual's past earnings | Income and resources must be below a certain limit |
Please note that while many people who are eligible for SSI may also be entitled to Social Security benefits, the two programs are different in many ways.
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