SSDI and SSI Basics

Social Security administers two programs for people who have become disabled and need monthly benefit payments to make up for their inability to work and earn a living.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI is a program designed for people who have worked and paid taxes into the Social Security system for years prior to becoming disabled. If an individual is judged disabled, the individual will receive SSDI benefits regardless of the individual's assets or family income.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI, unlike SSDI, is a "needs-based" program. SSI is designed to pay benefits to disabled people who need help with basic living costs, even if they haven't worked or paid taxes into the Social Security system. To qualify for SSI payments, a claimant cannot have family assets or income over a certain limit.

Overview of Disability Benefits From the SSA

What Is the Difference Between Social Security Disability (SSDI) and SSI?
Social Security Disability & SSI: Information & Criteria

An overview of Social Security's disability evaluation process and what you need to do to get benefits.
Social Security Disability and SSI: The Application and Determination Process

To apply for Social Security Disability or SSI benefits based on disability, a person must first make a claim (fill out an application). This is done by contacting the Social Security office, either by phone or by visiting a local office.
Can You Qualify for Both SSDI and SSI Disability Benefits?

Yes, in certain circumstances, you can collect SSI and SSDI at the same time. This is called a concurrent claim. It doesn't happen often, however, for the following reasons.
Reasons to Apply for Disability Benefits From Social Security

Why should you apply for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (either Social Security disability or SSI disability)?
Top Ten FAQs on Social Security Disability and SSI Cases

The information on this page regarding the Social Security Disability program is particularly useful as it is derived from the experience of actual...
The Social Security Disability Process Visualized: From Application to Award

How many disability claims are filed with Social Security? How many win benefits? How does it work?

Disability Lawyers

Can a Social Security Disability Attorney Speed Up a Case?

There are many advantages to having an attorney represent you during the Social Security Disability application and appeals process. There are several ways that having a disability attorney represent you might speed up the process.
Social Security Disability Attorney & Lawyer Information

Social Security Disability Attorney, Non-Attorney Disability Advocate & SSI Lawyer Representation by state.

SSI Overview

What Are Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Disability Benefits?

SSI provides disability benefits for low-income disabled people who don't qualify for Social Security.
How Much Can You Receive in SSI Disability?

The amount of your monthly SSI disability check depends on whether you're married, whether you have any income, and where you live.

SSDI Overview

An Overview of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Here's a basic introduction to how Social Security Disability works.
How Much in Social Security Disability Benefits Can You Get?

Your SSDI payment depends on your average lifetime earnings.

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