What is the Difference Between SSI and SSDI?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is that SSI is an entitlement program with no work-related requirements, whereas SSDI is an earned benefit that has work requirements to qualify. Both programs provide monthly benefits to people with disabilities, but they have different eligibility criteria and benefits.
Key differences between SSI and SSDI include:
- Eligibility: SSI is based on need, while SSDI is based on contributions by employees and employers to the Social Security trust fund.
- Work Requirements: SSDI requires a sufficient number of "work credits" to be eligible, whereas SSI has no work-related requirements.
- Benefit Amounts: SSDI benefits are based on an applicant's lifetime average earnings, while SSI benefits have a standard monthly amount set by the Social Security Administration.
- Health Insurance: If you qualify for SSI, you become eligible for Medicaid coverage immediately in most states. If you qualify for SSDI, you will receive Medicare eligibility after a 24-month waiting period from the time that benefits begin.
It is possible to be eligible for both SSI and SSDI if you meet the requirements for both programs. In this case, you can receive monthly income from both.
Comparative Table: SSI vs SSDI
The main differences between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are their financial eligibility criteria and the sources of funding. Here is a table summarizing the key differences between the two programs:
| Feature | SSI | SSDI |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Provides benefits to elderly, disabled, or blind individuals with limited income and resources. | Provides benefits for individuals who meet the Social Security Administration's definition of "disability" and have a qualifying work history. |
| Funding | Funded by general tax revenue, not the Social Security trust fund. | Funded by payroll taxes, like Social Security retirement benefits. |
| Work History | Recipients do not need a work history, making it a means-based program. | Recipients must have a qualifying work history, having earned at least 20 credits, with 20 of those credits acquired in the last 10 years. |
| Benefit Amount | The amount of benefits depends on the applicant's monthly income and assets. | Benefits are based on the recipient's average lifetime earnings. |
| Health Insurance | If found disabled and meet income requirements, recipients are eligible for Medicaid. | No direct link to health insurance, but some recipients may qualify for Medicare or Medicaid based on their individual circumstances. |
Both programs require applicants to meet the Social Security Administration's definition of disability, which includes having a total disability that prevents them from engaging in gainful activity and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
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