You have probably heard of “Social Security Disability” before. But are you aware there are actually two different kinds of benefits under this name?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are the terms used to describe monthly payments made to qualified citizens. Both types of benefits provide support and assistance to those who are no longer able to work because of a disability.
That is where the similarities between the two end. Knowing the differences between SSI vs. SSDI will help you decide what application for benefits you’ll need to fill out.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
If you have been working, the government has been taking taxes out of your paycheck to help fund the SSDI program. Then, if you become disabled, you are able to collect money from this program. It’s similar to how a person collects money from an insurance policy after a car accident.
There are two requirements:
- You must be disabled, and
- You must have worked long enough and recently enough.
The easiest way to know if you qualify for SSDI benefits is to review your Social Security Statement. You can review this online by creating an account with the Social Security Administration, or call your local office and request a paper copy through the mail.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
The SSI program is designed to help those who have limited income and financial resources. SSI is based on your financial need, not your work history. This means you may qualify for this benefit program if:
- You are disabled, and
- Your assets (your personal property) are below $2,000 (or $3,000 if you are married), and
- You have little to no income.
The Social Security Administration has strict standards in place to determine if you’re qualified for these benefits. If you’re not sure if you qualify, contact a Social Security lawyer to help you.
How Much Will I Receive in Disability Benefits?
How much money you will receive in benefits depends on whether you are approved for SSI vs. SSDI benefits.
Remember, SSDI benefits are calculated on the amount of money you paid into the system before you were disabled. The higher your salary was, the more you’ll receive in monthly benefits. Someone who earned $70,000 a year will receive more in benefits than someone who earned $40,000 a year.
Because calculating your SSDI benefits amount can be complex, we recommend you contact an Iowa Disability lawyer to see what amount you may receive.
For SSI benefits, the government limits how much a person is able to receive each month. In 2017, the maximum amount an individual can receive monthly is $735. If you have any other countable income or benefits, your monthly checks may be less.
If your initial application has been denied, call RSH Legal at 1-319-774-1542 today. Our Social Security lawyers can help guide you through the appeals process and get the disability benefits you deserve.
