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?

Both SSI and SSDI disability programs offer cash benefits for disabled individuals, but the financial eligibility requirements are very different.
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

Learn the basics of the Social Security Disability application and determination process.
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.
Reasons to Apply for Disability Benefits From Social Security

The monthly cash benefits are the main reason disability claimants apply. But you'll also qualify for medical benefits.
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?

Having an experienced attorney handle your Social Security disability case may help to speed up the very long process.
Social Security Disability Attorney & Lawyer Information

If you make it to the hearing level, hiring a disability lawyer or nonlawyer representative can definitely help.

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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