The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers various programs and benefits for people who meet the qualifications, but each one has different requirements. Two of these programs – Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – are often confused, but there are significant differences. Knowing how these programs differ and what the qualifications are can help you gain access to the benefits you need and deserve.

Understanding SSDI: What You Need to Know

SSDI is a benefit program operated by the SSA that is based on disability status. If applicants have paid into the program through qualifying work experience and they experience a disabling condition that prevents them from working, they may be eligible for SSDI. Approval and eligibility for SSDI are not based on income or financial status.

What Is SSI and How Does It Differ from SSDI?

SSI is also a benefit administered by the SSA for people with certain disabilities. Specifically, this program is for children who are blind or disabled and adults who are disabled, blind, or over 65 years old. To qualify for SSI, applicants must meet income requirements rather than work history requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for SSDI and SSI Benefits

To qualify for SSDI, you must have a disability that prevents you from performing your current job and from obtaining new employment for at least one year. Additionally, one of the following must be true to meet the prior work requirements:

  • Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes were withheld from your paycheck
  • You were self-employed and paid Self-Employment Contributions Act (SECA) taxes

Other requirements include:

  • You must be under 65 years old
  • You must have worked a select number of years and earned enough work credits

The number of credits you need to be eligible for SSDI depends on how old you are, so this is a good topic to bring up with an SSA attorney for personalized answers.

Applicants may be eligible for SSI benefits if they meet the disability requirements and the financial need aspect of the program. In addition to the maximum income requirements, one of the following must be true to qualify:

  • You are blind
  • You have a disability
  • You are at least 65 years old
  • You have been diagnosed with a condition that makes you unable to work
  • Your medical condition is expected to last at least one year or result in your death

Even though both SSDI and SSI are benefits that are intended for people with disabilities, there are significant differences in the qualifying factors.

Is It Possible to Receive Both SSDI and SSI Benefits?

You may be able to receive SSDI and SSI benefits if you meet the eligibility criteria for both programs. This is referred to as receiving concurrent benefits. The SSA determines if you qualify for both, and you do not need to submit separate applications.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for SSDI or SSI

In theory, the application for SSA benefits is straightforward. However, many people are denied after their initial application, so having guidance for this process from an SSA attorney is helpful. There are multiple forms, and you will need to provide information about your marital status, citizenship status, birth, identity, education, medical conditions, employment, finances, and activity level.

Completing and submitting the forms are just the first steps of the process. The SSA may reach out to request additional information or supporting documents. It’s important that you provide accurate contact information and update it if any changes occur so the Administration can contact you. It’s also crucial that you provide the updates requested by the SSA by the deadline, or they may deny your application.

If you are denied in the initial application stage, you have options for appealing, but you must take action quickly to ensure you don’t miss your window to submit an appeal or reconsideration.

The Role of a Lawyer in Strengthening Your SSDI or SSI Claim

The majority of initial SSDI and SSI applications are denied. If you choose to appeal, the process is often lengthy, taking multiple years in some cases. The SSA may deny your claim based on medical or non-medical reasons, but navigating an appeal is tricky either way. Whether you are filing for the first time or seeking an appeal of a denial, contact the Law Office of Daniel Martin.

Our Tennessee SSDI/SSI lawyers can help you keep track of deadlines, identify and submit supporting documentation, and ensure that all the requirements are met for the best chance at approval. If you think you meet the eligibility requirements for SSDI or SSI benefits but were denied, reach out to us to find out if appeal is an option.