Houston Social Security
Disability Attorney

Photo of David Dopkin
Photo of David Dopkin

What is Supplemental Security Income and who can it help?

On Behalf of | Jun 5, 2019 | Supplemental Security Income

It is important for disabled individuals in Houston to understand the different government benefits available to help them. For those who qualify, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may be one option to consider. There are different options available to disabled individuals through the Social Security Administration (SSA) based on different situations and circumstances, which is why disabled individuals and their families should be familiar with what may be available to them.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is an option for disabled individuals that may not meet the requirements to qualify for Social Security disability (SSD) benefits. Both types of benefits are available to help disabled individuals. However, they help disabled individuals in different circumstances. Though qualifying for both types of benefits is based on the medical condition that the disabled individual suffers from that prevents them from working, there is a second work history requirement disabled individuals must meet to qualify for SSD benefits.

If a disabled individual does not have the necessary work history to meet the work credits required to qualify for SSD benefits, they may be able to qualify for SSI benefits, which do not require work history credits to be eligible for benefits. Disabled individuals, individuals age 65 and older and children who are blind or disabled may qualify for SSI. Qualifying for SSI benefits is based on the applicant’s financial need, so the SSA will evaluate the applicant’s income and resources to determine if they qualify. Disabled individuals who qualify for SSI benefits also usually qualify for Medicaid.

Qualifying for Supplemental Security Income is different than qualifying for Social Security disability benefits. Because both types of benefits can be valuable to disabled individuals in different situations to help with their daily needs. Therefore, disabled individuals and their families should be aware of the differences between SSI and SSD benefits, so they can determine what options they may pursue.