DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SSI & SSDI
What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
SSI is a Federal program funded by general tax revenues and is a needs-based program. It provides monthly payments to meet an individual’s basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.
What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
SSDI supports individuals who are disabled and have a qualifying work history, either through their own employment or through a family member.
What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?
SSI determination is based on age or disability and limited income and resources. SSDI determination is based on disability and work credits.
For more information on each program, visit the SSA website: https://www.ssa.gov/redbook/eng/overview-disability.htm
How do I know if I’m eligible for SSI?
Prior to beginning the application process, it is beneficial to determine your eligibility. On the SSA BEST, you can use the Benefit Eligibility Screen Tool (BEST) to find the Social Security benefits you may be eligible to receive:
How do I apply for SSI?
Individuals who believe they qualify for Social Security Disability can submit an initial application for disability benefits on the internet, over the phone, or in person at a local Social Security Administration (SSA) office.
Apply Online here: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/ssi/#anchor3
If you choose not to apply online, you can schedule, reschedule or cancel an appointment with the SSA by calling: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) between 8:00 am – 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday; or contact the Salt Lake City Social Security Office: 175 East 400 South, suite 500, Salt Lake City, UT – 84111 (Appointments are required for in-person assistance).
phone: 866-851-5275.
What happens after I submit my application?
If the application is filled out properly and all documentation is in order, applicants should receive a letter containing the SSA’s decision to approve or deny the claim within three to five months.
What if my application is denied?
If you receive an unfavorable decision and feel the SSA has chosen to deny your claim in error, you may submit an appeal to have the decision reviewed. Generally, you have 60 days after you receive the notice of decision to ask for any type of appeal.
More information on the appeal process can be found here: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/appeal.html
If I currently receive SSI, do I have to reapply when I turn 18?
Yes, the Age-18 Redetermination Process begins after the individual turns 18. The SSA will review your eligibility for continued SSI benefits based on the disability rules for adults, including non-medical eligibility rules (income, resources, residency, citizenship, etc.), which differ from the rules that were applied when the individual was a child. The SSA will make sure you are aware of this important change and the process for providing them with any needed information. The SSA will usually contact you within a year of the individual’s 18th birthday. During this review, the SSA will send you a letter to ask for the following information about your disability:
- Names of any medicines
- Hospital stays and surgeries
- Visits to doctors and clinics
- Work activity
- Counseling and therapy
Frequently asked Questions:
https://faq.ssa.gov/en-US/topic/?id=CAT-01094
https://faq.ssa.gov/en-US/topic/?id=CAT-01089
