SSI vs. SSDI: Similarities and Differences

The main difference between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is that SSI is an entitlement program with no work-related requirements, whereas SSDI is an earned benefit that has work requirements to qualify. Both programs pay monthly benefits to people with disabilities.

SSI vs SSDI: An overview

SSI sends monthly income to people with low income or limited resources who are blind, 65 or older or have a qualifying disability.

• Benefits are set by law and are uniform for all applicants.

• Your work history does not affect your eligibility for SSI.

• Social Security taxes do not fund SSI (income taxes and other taxes do).

• Income from other sources, including Social Security retirement, can lower the amount you receive from SSI.

• To be eligible for SSI, you can’t own stocks, cash or other resources collectively worth more than $2,000 ($3,000 for couples).

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SSDI works more like insurance. If someone becomes unable to do their job because of a medical disability, they can apply for disability benefits.

• To be eligible, you must meet work-related requirements.

• Benefit amounts are based on an applicant’s lifetime average earnings.

• Through paycheck deductions, workers pay for SSDI with Social Security taxes.

• SSDI may pay a higher benefit than SSI.

• SSDI doesn’t have resource limits, meaning you can own stocks or other assets.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers both SSDI and SSI.

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Can I get both SSDI and SSI?

Yes. If you are eligible for both programs, you can receive monthly income from SSDI and SSI.

If you receive SSDI and SSI income and your income from all sources, including SSDI, exceeds the SSI limit of $914 after exclusions, your SSI may be reduced.

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SSI vs. SSDI: Key differences

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