What is SSI?
In contrast to SSDI, Social Security Insurance (SSI) does not require that the applicant was ever employed. As a result, children and adults with disabilities can become eligible to receive SSI benefits even if they never worked. SSI is funded from general taxes, so it doesn’t matter if you never paid federal taxes of any kind before. This is because SSI is designed as a supplement benefit for indigent elderly, blind, and disabled people.
What is SSD?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD) is a federal program providing financial help to those unable to work due to a medical condition. SSD is a work-based program that is funded from your taxes. As you pay into FICA, you build up Social Security credits. These are then used to payout a benefit to you if you become disabled and entitled to receive SSD. However, you can only apply for SSD if you were employed. This is because it is designed as a benefit for workers.
Who is eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a Federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues, not Social Security taxes. It is designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people who have little or no income and provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter. A knowledgeable Social Security Specialist can help to make the process as smooth as possible and can help you get the financial assistance you need as soon as possible.
Who is eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Anyone who is:
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Aged (age 65 or older), blind or disabled.
And, who:
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Has limited income, has limited resources, is a U.S. citizen or national, or in one of certain categories of aliens.
What does disabled mean for a child?
If you are under age 18 you may be considered “disabled” if you have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment, (including an emotional or learning problem) that:
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Results marked and severe functional limitations; and
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Can be expected to result in death; or
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Has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.
What does disabled mean for an adult?
If you are age 18 or older we may consider you “disabled” if you have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment (including an emotional or learning problem) which:
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Results in the inability to do any substantial gainful activity; and
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Can be expected to result in death; or
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Has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.