Important information for Social Security clients

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    3.  » What Is The Difference Between SSD and SSI?

What Is The Difference Between SSD and SSI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (also known as SSDI or SSD) is available to people who have worked and paid into the Social Security program for a substantial period before disability robbed them of the ability to make a living. How long you need to have paid into the program depends on a number of factors.

Supplemental Security Income (also known as SSI) is a needs-based program for people who have never worked or who didn’t work long enough to qualify for SSDI.

Help Pursuing Disability Benefits

Do not try to get through this process alone. A lawyer can make the process easier for you. Kaylor, Kaylor & Leto, P.A., helps people in Lakeland and the surrounding area with SSDI and SSI claims and denials. We can determine which program you are eligible for and help you pursue the benefits you are entitled to. Our attorney has over 35 years of experience helping ill and injured people.

How SSDI And SSI Are Similar

Because both programs are handled through the Social Security Administration (SSA), there are some similarities:

  • You can file both applications at the same time.
  • The decision about whether your disability is severe enough to qualify for benefits is the same for both programs and is decided at the same time.
  • You must be totally disabled to qualify for benefits. There is no partial disability.

It isn’t uncommon for people to file claims for both SSDI and SSI. You may be eligible for one or both at different times.

The Key Difference Between SSDI And SSI

The most important difference between the two programs, aside from qualifying for SSDI through work activity, is that SSI can be denied simply because your family’s income is too high. If your spouse works, his or her income will be taken into account before your claim will proceed to the disability determination stage. If you are eventually approved for SSI, the payments will stop if your family’s income exceeds a certain threshold.

SSDI, however, can never be denied because of your income or assets.

Navigating these complex programs and trying to understand what you are eligible for can be frustrating and difficult — especially when you’re suffering from an injury or illness. Let an experienced Florida advocate assist you. Make an appointment online or contact us at 863-968-7837 for a free consultation.