Social Security disability benefits and Supplemental Security Income benefits are different programs that can help disabled individuals in different situations. As a result, it is helpful for disabled individuals to be familiar with their different disability options, how they can help them and how to obtain the benefits they require.
Both types of benefits are based on a qualifying medical condition that prevents the disabled individual from working. There are some differences, however, as to who may be able to qualify for Social Security disability benefits versus who may be able to qualify for Supplemental Security Income.
When pursing Social Security disability or SSD benefits, the disabled individual must suffer from a disabling medical condition that is expected to last for 12 months or longer or result in death. In addition, the disabled individual must also have the necessary work history to meet work credit requirements that resulted in them paying Social Security taxes.
For disabled individuals who have not paid into the Social Security system or who lack the necessary work history, Supplemental Security Income or SSI is an option to consider that is based on need. It also evaluates the disabled individual’s resources rather than work history. If the disabled individual’s income and resources fall below a certain level, they may qualify to receive SSI. It is helpful for disabled individuals to be familiar with what types of income and resources are considered when the Social Security Administration evaluates them for SSI benefits eligibility.
Disabled individuals may rely on one or the other of these two different types of often necesary benefits. As a result, disabled individuals and their families should be familiar with which option is best for them and how they can obtain the benefits they need.