SSI vs. SSDI: A San Diego Disability Claim Attorney Explains (Part A)
Take a moment to consider SSI vs. SSDI. Although both have something to do with providing financial assistance for people who are disabled, they are different. Before you apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI payments) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) you should know how they differ. Meet with a San Diego disability claim attorney for further assistance.
SSI vs. SSDI: How They Differ
Your Supplemental Security Income receives funding from the general fund of the U.S. Treasury.
You may qualify for Supplemental Security Income if you're:
- blind;
- disabled;
- struggling with a low income;
- over age 65; or
- a child.
SSI payments can provide some financial relief to help you stay afloat. To qualify for SSI, you must meet the income requirement. In many cases, you may be eligible if your assets are valued at less than $2,000; or your assets combined with your spouse's assets total less than $3,000.
The assets not included in SSI income requirement are your:
- home;
- car;
- burial plots; and
- life insurance policies.
Social Security Disability Income, on the other hand, receives its funding from Social Security taxes. SSDI is for those who have suffered a severe mental or physical impairment. You'll be eligible for SSDI only if you have contributed to the fund through employment, tallying a minimum of 40 work credits.
This means if you have paid what you may consider significant Social Security taxes, you can expect higher Supplemental Security Income SSI payments than someone who has paid less in taxes.
If you're having trouble applying for either program, or if your application has been rejected, you should contact a San Diego disability claim attorney. An attorney who has handled many Social Security cases can help determine whether there were any mistakes in your application and guide you through the appeals process.
