Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, and Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, are both programs funded federally and managed through the Social Security Administration. They are both designed to support people who have disabilities which prevent them from working one is an insurance program while the latter is an entitlement program.
The main difference between SSD and SSI is the revenue source through which they are funded. SSDI is funded through FICA and Social Security taxes. SSI is not financed through Social Security, but rather through general tax revenues. The qualifications for SSDI and SSI also differ.
SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance, will help you if you have a long history of work, and you have paid into Social Security in 5 out of the last 10 years prior to your alleged onset date. SSDI will help if you are disabled and can’t be employed. Your medical issue must meet the Social Security disability guidelines, and SSDI will pay eligible family members. Consulting with an experienced Social Security Disability attorney is a must.
Supplemental Security Income or SSI, will support you if you have low income and few resources. It will give you cash for your basic needs, like shelter, clothing, and food. SSI pays out money based mainly on your monetary need and disability. Judges are known to look at SSI cases much tougher than SSDI because SSI is an entitlement program while SSDI is insurance. If you submit a disability claim for Social Security Disability Insurance or SSI, the case workers will go through your application and may send you out for a consult examination also known as a (CE) by a doctor that SSA chooses.
An attorney will be able to assist you in preparing all pertinent information and forms to ensure that your claim is properly handled as it moves through this unique system.