SSI AND WHO IT SERVES

SSI stands for Supplemental Security Income.  It is a program administered by the US Social Security program.  It is based on financial need, not on whether you worked and paid into Social Security.

Persons who have never worked may receive SSI benefits if they....

1.  Are age 65 or over and meet the financial need guidelines, or

2.  Are disabled prior to age 65 and meet the financial need requirements.

HOW IS SSI DIFFERENT FROM SSDI?

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) requires a work history and requires payment into the Social Security trust fund.  These payments are called FICA taxes and are most often paid by payroll deductions.  SSI does not require any work or payment of FICA.

The monthly benefit for SSI is usually lower than for SSDI.  The maximum federal benefit for SSI in 2017 is only $735 per month for an individual, and $1,102 for a couple.  The SSDI benefit is often higher.

As I have stated, SSI is based on financial need but SSDI has no income or resource restrictions.  

SHOULD YOU FILE FOR SSI OR SSDI?

If you have sufficient work credits, you should file for SSDI.  If you have very limited household income and financial resources, you should also file for SSI.

 

 

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