SSDI and SSI are two federal disability benefit programs with different qualification rules and funding sources.
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is based on your work history and is funded by payroll taxes. SSI (Supplemental Security Income) supports individuals with limited income and assets, regardless of work history, and is funded by general tax revenue.
Both programs provide monthly payments to people with serious medical conditions. However, SSDI requires work credits, while SSI depends on financial need. Many applicants qualify for one or the other, and some for both.
Understanding SSDI vs SSI helps reduce confusion, avoid processing delays to your disability claim, and improve your chances of approval.
Key Takeaways from the Blog
- SSDI is based on work history, while SSI is based on financial need.
- SSDI requires work credits and provides access to Medicare after two years.
- SSI does not require past employment and offers Medicaid, often immediately.
- You can qualify for both programs if your income and work history meet the criteria.
- SSDI and SSI have different application and review processes handled by the Social Security Administration.
- Many initial claims are denied, but you have the right to appeal through multiple levels.
What Is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal benefit for people who can no longer work due to a long-term medical condition. It provides monthly payments based on your work history and is funded by payroll taxes.
SSDI only applies to workers who have paid into Social Security. It does not consider your current income. Eligibility depends on work credits and disability status.
Eligibility Requirements for SSDI Benefits
To qualify for SSDI Benefits, you must meet all three of the following conditions:
- You have a medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
- You have earned enough work credits through past employment that paid Social Security taxes.
- You are not currently engaged in substantial gainful activity, meaning your income is below the monthly SSA limit.
Most people need about 10 years of work to qualify. You become eligible for Medicare after receiving SSDI payments for 24 months.
What is SSI for Low-Income Individuals?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program for people with limited income and few assets. It supports individuals who are disabled, blind, or age 65 and older.
SSI does not require any work history and is funded by general tax revenues, not payroll taxes.
This benefit is intended for people who have not yet worked long enough to qualify for SSDI or who have never worked due to age or disability. SSI eligibility is based entirely on financial need, not past employment.
Eligibility Requirements for SSI Benefits
To qualify for SSI, you must meet the following conditions:
- You have limited income and very few assets. Most individuals must have less than $2,000 in resources; couples are limited to $3,000.
- You are 65 or older, blind, or have a qualifying disability, such as chronic illness or physical impairment.
- Your work history is not considered. SSI eligibility is based completely on financial need, not employment background.
Key Differences Between SSDI and SSI
The difference between SSDI and SSI is as follows:
Factor | SSDI | SSI |
| Eligibility Criteria | Must have a qualifying disability and sufficient work history. | Must have a qualifying disability, be blind, or age 65+ with low income. |
| Work Credits Requirement | Work credits are required based on age and past work. | Work history is not required. |
| Funding Source | Funded by payroll taxes from workers. | Funded by general federal tax revenues. |
| Monthly Payment Amounts | Based on your past earnings. | Fixed federal amount, reduced by other income. |
| Health Insurance Benefits | Medicare eligibility after 2 years of SSDI payments. | Medicaid, usually available right after approval. |
| Application Process | Apply through SSA; medical documentation is reviewed. | Apply through SSA; financial documents are reviewed. |
| Post-Approval Reviews | Medical reviews to confirm disability status. | Financial and medical reviews to maintain eligibility. |
Receiving SSDI and SSI Together: Is It Possible?
Yes, receiving SSDI and SSI together is possible if you meet both sets of eligibility requirements. This is called concurrent benefits.
You must:
- Have low SSDI payments due to limited work history or earnings.
- Meet the SSI income and asset limits (e.g., under $2,000 in resources for individuals).
This situation commonly applies when SSDI benefits are less than the SGA limit of $1620 per month (2025). If eligible, you can receive both Medicare and Medicaid, and your combined monthly support increases slightly.
What Happens After Approval or Denial of SSDI or SSI?
Once approved, you can receive monthly payments. For SSDI, Medicare begins after 24 months of benefits. For SSI, Medicaid is usually available immediately.
If your application was denied, you have the right to appeal. For denied SSDI claims, the appeal process involves:
- Request for Reconsideration: A different SSA reviewer examines your initial application and evidence.
- Administrative Hearing: You will present your case to a judge who reviews new evidence and testimony.
- Appeals Council Review: A council evaluates the judge’s decision to check for legal or procedural errors.
- Federal Court Filing: You file a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court if all SSA appeal steps are denied.
Only 36% of applicants are approved initially, so a denial is common and not final. Filing an appeal increases your chances.
Legal guidance improves results, especially if your condition prevents you from working. Get help from Stanley Law Offices.
SSDI and SSI: Common Misunderstandings Explained
Many people misunderstand how SSDI and SSI differ in eligibility, benefits, and application rules. These misunderstandings can lead to delays, missed benefits, or unnecessary stress. Here are a few common myths we often see:
- Myth 1: If you are denied SSDI, you’re automatically denied SSI.
- False. SSDI and SSI use different rules. You can still qualify for SSI even if you don’t meet SSDI criteria.
- Myth 2: You can not receive health insurance unless you get SSDI.
- Incorrect. SSI recipients often qualify for Medicaid immediately, even without any work history.
- Myth 3: SSDI and SSI follow the same approval process.
- No. SSDI reviews your work and medical history. SSI reviews your finances and disability status.
- Myth 4: The benefits are the same.
- Not true. SSDI is based on past earnings. SSI offers a fixed monthly amount.
Handling SSDI and SSI claims is complex. These myths only scratch the surface. A qualified New York Social Security Disability attorney knows the distinct rules of each program. They help you avoid costly mistakes, build a stronger application and appeal denials effectively.
Applying for SSDI or SSI: What You Need to Know?
To apply for SSDI or SSI, submit an application through the Social Security Administration online, by phone, or in person at a local office. The application process includes forms related to your medical condition, income, and, if applying for SSDI, your work history.
If you live in New York or Pennsylvania and need help preparing your application or understanding your eligibility, Stanley Law Offices is bar certified in each state and we’re here to help. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your situation.
