Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income?

Social security benefits can be difficult to understand, but there are many people in this country who are forced to rely on social security for their income after suffering a debilitating injury.

SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance is intended to provide access to social security earlier than retirement age for those who become disabled are not able to work until their retirement age. SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, on the other hand, provides monetary assistance to people who are disabled of any age, including children, and to those who are over 65 (the retirement age) whether or not they are disabled.

Amount of Benefits
A major difference between SSI and SSDI are the amount of benefits received. SSI provides a set monthly benefit. The amount received under SSI is based on a number of factors, including whether the beneficiary lives alone, amount of rent received, and what kind of disability they may suffer from. SSI is a safety net, and any other income received will reduce the total amount of SSI received. SSI is also a "need-based" benefit. There must be financial necessity in order to qualify for SSI.

SSDI, however, is a monthly benefit calculated according to the payroll taxes the beneficiary has paid throughout their career. The intent is to pay the amount the beneficiary would receive if they worked until their full retirement age.

If you would like to learn more about the difference between SSI and SSDI, please contact the experienced Social Security attorneys at Stipe Injury Law today for your free consultation.