Facts about the SSI and the SSDI that Applicants Must Know

Several federal benefits programs provide financial aid to seniors and persons with disabilities. These programs can help with income support, housing, and healthcare.

Income support programs like Social Security and Supplemental Security Income can help seniors and persons with disabilities cover their basic living expenses. Housing programs like Section 8 can help with the cost of the rent. And healthcare programs like Medicare and Medicaid can help with the cost of medical care.

There are two main programs that the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers for people who are unemployable because of a disability. These are SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance). These programs provide income for those who are unable to work.

Applying for benefits under either of these programs can be complicated, and it is prudent to seek the help of a qualified social security lawyer. Social security lawyers can help you navigate the application process, understand the eligibility requirements, and represent you in the event of an appeal. 

What Is Supplemental Security Income?

It is a needs-based program that provides financial assistance to eligible individuals aged or with a disability. SSI is a federally administered program funded by general tax revenue, not Social Security taxes. To qualify for SSI, an individual must meet the following criteria:

– Be aged 65 or older, or be blind, or have a disability

– Have limited income and resources

– Be a U.S. citizen or national, or a qualified alien

Individuals who meet the above criteria may be eligible for a monthly cash benefit from SSI. The amount of the aid is based on the individual’s need and is subject to change if their circumstances change. As mentioned, it would be prudent to seek legal guidance from social security lawyers to ensure that you will qualify for this financial aid.

In addition to the monthly cash benefit, SSI also provides eligible individuals with Medicaid coverage. Medicaid is a health insurance program that helps pay for medical expenses for those who meet certain income and resource criteria.

What Is Social Security Disability Insurance?

It is a federal program that provides income replacement and medical benefits to eligible workers who cannot work due to a disabling condition. This program is administered by the SSA and is funded by payroll taxes. To qualify for benefits, workers must have a qualifying disability that prevents them from being able to work and must have paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes.

Once a worker is approved for benefits, they will receive a monthly benefit payment based on their prior earnings. In addition to the monthly benefit payment, SSDI recipients are also eligible for Medicare coverage.

If you are considering applying for SSDI benefits, it is essential to understand the eligibility requirements and the application process. Social security lawyers can help you with that.

Conclusion

The SSA has two separate programs that benefit disabled individuals – the SSDI and the SSI. Both programs have different eligibility requirements, but both can provide much-needed assistance to those unable to work due to a disability. Now that you better understand these programs, you can decide which is for you. 

If you think you are eligible for benefits under either program, consult Avard Law. As social security lawyers, we will guide you through the process so that you can qualify for this financial aid. So, contact us now to schedule a consultation!