While both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Insurance(SSI) are administered by the Social Security Administration, they are different benefits that have separate requirements.
SSDI benefits are based on an individual’s qualifying work history; therefore, there is no set amount or duration of benefits that all qualified people will receive. The SSA will only pay SSDI benefits to individuals who cannot work for at least five full months because of a disability or other condition. This means that most people can begin receiving SSDI benefits after six months of a qualifying disability.
SSDI is considered an “insurance” program because you, other workers and employers contribute to the program through Social Security taxes. In some cases, you may be able to obtain SSDI benefits for a disabled spouse or child.
SSI benefits are available to eligible adults and children with disabilities and limited income, as well as people 65 and older with limited income. The SSA evaluates applications to see whether people meet the requirements for maximum income and other resources. People who qualify can receive a set amount of benefits, which for 2014 is $721 monthly for an eligible individual and $1,082 for an eligible couple. New York State supplements this federal payment; the amount of the state supplement depends on many factors, including whether the person lives in a medical facility. The total amount may be reduced if the person has other sources of income.
Learn Which Benefits You Or Your Loved One May Qualify For
Because eligibility for these benefits depends on many factors, including your age, work history, income and other assets, it is essential to have an experienced lawyer who can evaluate your situation and determine the best way to proceed.
Our Social Security Disability Insurance attorneys can figure out how to maximize your benefits eligibility. If you qualify for SSDI and SSI, you may also be eligible to receive other state and federal benefits — in fact, you can even be required to apply for these additional benefits. We can help you make the application process easier.
It is important that you don’t trust just anyone with your SSDI and SSI benefits. The process to receive these benefits can be extremely overwhelming, but our attorneys can help you every step of the way. Our Disability Retirement Attorney and Social Security Lawyers will explain how you can qualify and show you exactly what forms to fill in and walk you through the process. If you are looking for a law firm who has attorneys that specialize in Veterans Law, Worker’s Compensation, Social Security, Disability Retirement, and other practice areas, get in touch with our team today.
