Facing a physical impairment can be uncomfortable. You suffer from the pain daily, reducing your abilities and preventing you from working. As a result, the loss of income becomes a significant concern.
Fortunately, you may be eligible to receive disability benefits by applying to either Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Understanding both programs can help you determine which best suits you.
What is SSDI?
SSDI can offer you benefits if you cannot report to work due to a severe medical condition, especially if it lasts for at least a year or results in death. This program considers individuals who have sufficient work history.
To be eligible, you need to pay Social Security taxes on your earnings and have enough work credits. Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which you earned during the last 10 years before your disability starts. Although this is the general rule, the required credits for younger applicants can be lower.
What is SSI?
SSI provides cash payments to disabled individuals who have limited income and financial resources. Unlike SSDI, this program has more eligibility requirements, which include:
- Individuals who are aged 65 or older, or those who are disabled (meeting the same medical criteria as SSDI)
- Limited earned and unearned income
- Financial resources not exceeding $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple
Meeting these factors is crucial for the approval for your SSI application.
Choosing your strategy
Before filing your application, consider these to help you decide:
- If you lack work credits but meet the SSI financial criteria, apply for SSI.
- If you have sufficient work credits but too many financial resources for SSI, apply for SSDI.
You can apply for both SSDI and SSI if you have a sufficient work history and low income. Seeking legal advice can help you gain insights into the application process.