Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are the major programs administered by Social Security Administration (SSA). Both are federal financial assistance program that makes a monthly payment. And, are confused to be the same by many. But, SSI and SSDI are fundamentally different programs. In this article, we have listed down the common differences between both of them.
| Basis of Difference | Supplemental Security Income (SSI) | Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) |
|---|---|---|
| Beneficiary | SSI benefits are meant for
who have limited income and resources. | SSDI benefits are for those persons with disabilities who have a qualifying work history. They should have contributed to Social Security Fund and are now not able to work due to their disability. |
| Eligibility Determination | The eligibility for SSI benefits are determined based on –
| The eligibility for SSDI is determined based on –
|
| Medicaid and Medicare Facility | People who qualify for SSI benefits automatically qualify for Medicaid (in most states). | People getting SSDI benefits qualify for Medicare after receiving 24-months of SSDI payment. (People with ALS qualify for Medicare immediately) |
| Beginning of Benefit | SSI payments start after one month of determination of eligibility. | SSDI benefits begin after 6 months of disability i.e. 6-months after the date SSA decides the disability began. |
| Amount of Benefit | Depends on various factors including the place of residence and income and resources of self and spouse. | Depends on the work and earning history i.e. average lifetime earnings. |
| Underage vs. Adults | Children with disabilities too may get SSI benefits if their parents have limited income and resources. | SSDI benefits are only for adults with disabilities. Children are not eligible to apply for SSDI. |
| Basis | SSI is a need-based program. It aims at fulfilling basic needs such as food, clothes and shelter. | SSDI is an entitlement-based program. A person pays social security taxes while on the job and thus they deserve the benefit when disability limits their capability. |
| Finance | SSI is funded by general tax revenue. | SSDI is financed by contributions of employers, employees and self-employed individuals. |
| Family Benefits | SSI benefits are provided on an individual basis. No family member will receive any benefit if a person qualifies for SSI. | Eligible family members like spouses and underage children too get benefits if a person qualifies for SSDI. |
| Other Income | Income from other sources may affect the amount of payment or even eligibility to get SSI benefits. | Other income (except wages) may not affect the amount or eligibility to SSDI. |
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