Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly cash assistance to low-income older adults (aged 65 or over), low-income individuals who are blind, and low-income individuals who are disabled. It originated with the 1965 Social Security Act, Title XVI. Eligibility for SSI is based on financial need (income is relative to the poverty level, and assets are less than $2,000 for a single individual and $3,000 if married.). SSI assistance varies across states. A recipient of SSI is automatically enrolled in Medicaid (to cover healthcare expenses). Food stamps are not included. The enrollee will no longer receive SSI benefits when his/or her income and assets exceed the limit or the enrollee is able to perform Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).

Social Security Disability Insurance

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) pays benefits to individuals (and their spouses and dependents) who have a disability and who have paid money into Security Trust Fund/FICA. Eligibility is based on disability (enrollee meets the definition of medically disabled) as well as work credits. The recipient of SSDI must be nonworking or without SGA. To receive SSDI, the Disability Determination Services (DDS) must assess if the applicant meets disability criteria. DDS determines if the applicant meets criteria, does not meet criteria, or will be referred to State's Office for Vocational Rehab (OVR) for vocational rehabilitation. SSDI assistance varies depending on the worker's lifetime average earnings with cost of living increase. Benefits of SSDI begin 5 months after start of disability. SSDI automatically enrolls recipients in premium-free Medicare (a 2-year waiting period is implemented unless the recipient is diagnosed with kidney failure requiring dialysis). Benefits of SSDI will end a month before the enrollee's full retirement, or if the recipient is able to perform SGA.