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Understanding the Difference Between SSDI & SSI (Part A)

Before you apply for Social Security disability benefits in Indianapolis, it helps to have a basic understanding of the difference between SSDI and SSI. While each program deals with providing much-needed assistance for the disabled, these programs are very different from each other. When you work with an Indianapolis Social Security disability lawyer, your attorney can help to explain the differences between the programs. More important, they can help you to determine the most appropriate option for you.

What is SSI?

SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, pays benefits to disabled adults and children who have limited financial resources.

This program offers a determined amount of money to people who are:

• aged 65 or older;
• blind; or
• disabled.

In order to be eligible for SSI benefits, you must earn a limited amount of income, as well as meet the program's assets requirements. In most cases, as of 2010, you will be required to have less than $2,000 in assets, or less than $3,000 in assets between you and your spouse. In this case, your assets won't include burial plots, life insurance policies, your home or your car. Your Indianapolis Social Security disability lawyer will likely ask you many questions about your income and assets in order to understand where you fall within these guidelines.

What is SSDI?

SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance, is a program funded by Social Security taxes. By its strict definition, SSDI pays benefits to people who cannot work because of a medical condition. This medical condition must be expected to last for a minimum of 12 months or until the time of death.

Therefore, if you have a short-term disability-say, for instance, a broken leg that is likely to heal completely within 2 months-you will not be eligible for SSDI. There are various requirements for eligibility for SSDI benefits. These requirements relate to your age at the time of your injury, and the amount of time that you have worked and paid Social Security taxes. The Indianapolis Social Security disability lawyer who you choose to represent your case can help you to evaluate your work history and medical condition(s) to see if SSDI is the correct program for you.

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