Applying for Disability Through SSI, it is Evaluated The Same as SSD

Social Security administers two disability programs: Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income disability (SSI). Social Security disability is based upon an individual’s insured status (insured status is earned through work); conversely Supplemental Security Income disability is strictly a need-based program. Naturally, each disability program has its own non-disability rules and guidelines that must be met.

That being said, Social Security uses the same disability medical decision-making process for both programs. In fact, many disability applicants file for SSD and SSI simultaneously and one medical determination is made for both programs.

So just how does the Social Security disability evaluation process work? All Social Security disability applicants must file a disability claim, and this can be done via the internet, phone or an in-office disability appointment at your local Social Security office.

If an applicant chooses to file their disability claim via the internet, they will only be able to file for Social Security disability. Consequently, if an applicant wishes to file for SSI in addition to SSD, they should file their disability claim via a phone interview or in office interview.

Additionally and very importantly (since many applicants miss this), if an applicant files an internet disability claim, they should complete the disability medical forms as well.

A word of caution, a completed medical disability form does not give a protected filing date, so it is important to complete the online disability application as well. For the time being, Social Security in-office interviews and telephone interviews are the most comprehensive methods of completing the needed disability information.

Not matter which method of interview an applicant chooses, the completed disability claim is set to a state agency responsible for making Social Security medical determinations for a decision. Disability examiners develop disability claims through acquiring medical records, questionnaires (from you and a third party), and consultative medical and/or mental examinations.

Once the disability examiner has all the necessary development complete, they will make a disability decision for both SSD and SSI. If an applicant receives a denial for disability benefits, they can appeal the denial. Once again, Social Security uses the same disability process for both SSI and SSD.

In conclusion, Social Security uses the same application and medical disability determination process for both SSD and SSI.






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