TranslateSSDI versus SSI
What is the difference between Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income?
Q: What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and how do you apply?
A: SSDI is a federal program that helps people who are disabled and cannot work. It is available to people who have a long enough work history. The financial benefits people receive are based on their lifetime earnings. This program is managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA), a Federal government department. The SSA determines your eligibility.
In addition to monthly income, you may be eligible to receive health insurance coverage through Medicare as part of your disability benefits. If you are eligible for SSDI, you may receive Medicare insurance after two years of receiving benefits.
Q: What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and how do you apply?
A: SSI is a federal program that helps people who are disabled and cannot work. It is available to people who do not have a long enough work history or have low income and assets. This program is managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA determines your eligibility.
SSI provides monthly payments to people with disabilities and older adults who have little or no income or resources. Your payment amount is based on your work history before your disability began.
In addition to monthly income, you may receive health insurance coverage from your state Medicaid program.
Q: Do I have to be a certain age to get SSDI or SUI?
A: There are no age requirements
Q: How do I apply?
A: The SSA has an application and review process to determine whether an individual qualifies for SSDI or SSI. You can find the disability criteria and application online at https://www.ssa.gov/. You can also apply by calling their toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Representatives can make an appointment for you to apply for coverage.
People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call the toll-free "TTY" number, 1-800-325-0778, between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
SSA requires you to apply with medical documentation before receiving disability benefits. Connecting with your care team and social worker to discuss your application plans is important.
If you are approved for benefits, you will receive an award letter, including when you will have your scheduled continued disability review. SSA periodically conducts a review of your benefits to make sure you still qualify. SSA will ask you questions about your condition and review your medical documentation to see if your condition has improved. If your condition has not improved, you will continue to receive benefits. Your benefits will only stop if your medical condition has improved and you can work regularly.
Q: Can I get SSDI and/or SSI for my disabled child?
A: Children can get SSDI and/or SSI if they meet the requirements. For more about what is involved, click this link: https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10026.pdf.
Q: Who can I contact for more information?
A: Referring to the Social Security Administration website https://www.ssa.gov/ would be your best bet, but you can call the HCMA office at (973) 983-7429 for advice.
Q: How long can I stay on the program?
A: They will check you occasionally to determine whether your medical condition has improved. If your medical condition has improved enough, allowing you to return to work, you would come off the program.