SSDI/SSI

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are large programs run by the government’s Social Security Administration (SSA). While they are often grouped together, it is important to distinguish the two. SSI is a welfare-based program that takes into account financial need in addition to medical disability. SSDI, on the other hand, does not concern a person’s monetary status. However, those who apply for SSDI are often required to apply for SSI at the same time.

Disability is defined strictly and applies to very serious cases (i.e., not minor scrapes or injuries). In general, to receive SSDI benefits, an individual must pass two tests: the “recent work test” and the “duration of work test.” The first test is based on the age of an individual at the time of his/her disability, and the latter assesses if a person has worked long enough to qualify for SSDI. According to statistics provided by the Social Security Administration in 2005, 52 percent of all SSDI applications were accepted, although the wait times varied. Family members who fit certain criteria may also be able to receive benefits from a person’s disability coverage.

Supplementary Security Income is granted to individuals 65 years or older and who have a low - income level. Further, if you are under the age of 65 years and are disabled or blind and have a low income level, you can file for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) as a disabled person if your income is under a certain level. These payments are made on a monthly basis, and are the same across the country. States, however, can add additional money on top of the basic benefits. Those receiving SSI may also be able to obtain other services from the local county or state, such as Medicaid and food stamps. People who have worked long enough and paid into Social Security may be eligible to receive benefits from that program as well.

References:

http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10029.html
http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/11000.html
http://en.wikipedia.org