SSI vs SSDI: Differences Between Programs Explained by a Las Vegas Social Security Disability Lawyer

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits are similar in many ways. The Social Security Administration oversees both programs, they both help those in need, they both require some form of disability and they both use the same rubric to determine disability. Furthermore, both programs require applications, which can be overwhelming. For that reason, you may consider allowing Las Vegas Social Security Disability lawyer Gerald M. Welt to assess your case and help you file an appeal as soon as you know if you will be out of work for at least 12 months. Below, attorney Gerald M. Welt explains the differences between the programs to help you make the right decision as to which is best for you.

Differences in SSI vs SSDI Programs

There are some major differences between the two programs, including:

• Funding. Your payroll pays for Social Security Disability benefits. Funding for SSI comes from federal tax revenues.

• Needs. They both require some sort of disability to receive benefits. However, applicants can only receive SSI if they have low incomes and few assets.

• Age. To receive SSD benefits, the applicant must be under the age of 65. In some cases, an applicant may be under the age of 66.

The key difference between SSI in Las Vegas and SSD is that SSI is need-based. The Social Security Administration considers your income and assets when making the decision. When considering SSI applications, the Social Security Administration has two sets of criteria for married people and individuals.

Individuals must:

• Possess less than $2,000 in resources (including assets and saved money)
• Own no more than one automobile
• Own no more than one home, which must be the applicant’s primary residence.

Married couples face the same criteria, except they can possess up to $3,000 in combined assets.