When you hear the news that you cannot work anymore due to a medical condition, you might not know where to turn. With financial stress piling up fast, you need to know your options. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) could help in your situation, but what are the differences and qualifications?
Here is a look at SSI vs. SSDI to help you get the support needed for your situation.
What Is Social Security Disability Insurance?
When people think of Social Security disability, they usually mean Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). This program is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes over time.
With every paycheck, you earn work credits. Your eligibility depends on how many credits you’ve earned. In most cases, adults need about 40 credits, with at least 20 earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled. However, younger workers can sometimes qualify with fewer work credits.
What Is Supplemental Security Income?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a different program. This is based on the needs of the individual, and there is no work requirement. SSI helps those who are elderly, blind, or disabled, without the financial means to support themselves. However, you still need to meet a few requirements.
The Social Security Administration will look at your income, savings, and other resources to see if you qualify. These SSI payments are smaller than SSDI benefits, but they can be a lifeline for those without a work history or with low SSDI benefits.
What Are the Medical Requirements?
While the financial rules are different, the medical requirements for SSI and SSDI are pretty much identical. If you want to qualify, your condition must:
- Be severe enough that you cannot perform substantial work, and
- Is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
You need more than a diagnosis. You have to show how the condition affects your ability to work. For that reason, you need medical records, doctor statements, and other supporting evidence for the application process. Otherwise, you could face a denied application.
Can You Qualify for Both?
In some cases, people can receive both SSI and SSDI at the same time. This is known as concurrent benefits. This happens when someone has a work history that qualifies them for disability, but the monthly supplemental payment cannot cover their basic living expenses.
For someone who worked part-time, had employment gaps, or earned lower wages, SSI can help in these situations. The SSA will calculate how much SSI you can receive along with the SSDI. Remember that your supplemental income payment will be reduced by the amount of disability received.
For people living with a serious medical condition that prevents them from working, extra support can cover food, housing, and medical care.
Get Assistance for Your SSI or SSDI Benefits
There is a difference between SSI vs. SSDI. You need to know the qualifications before applying for benefits. Unfortunately, even with the best documentation and understanding of the system, it is easy to get lost in the process.
An experienced SSDI attorney in Knoxville can take a lot of that weight off your shoulders. They know exactly what type of medical documentation the SSA wants. With that, a lawyer can help organize and present your records and will communicate with your doctors to make sure your limitations are explained.
Whether you are starting the initial application or dealing with a denied claim, we can assist at Easter & DeVore, Attorneys at Law. We know the system and the hurdles you might face during this time. Reach out to us today to learn more about your options.
