The Social Security Administration (SSA) manages two federal programs designed to provide monetary assistance to those who are unable to work due to permanent or extended disabilities: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Who can receive them?

SSDI is a benefit that focuses on severe physical and mental impairments expected to last over 12 months or until death, that prevent sufferers from engaging in their normal occupations or any other work. SSDI benefits can be received by the impaired individual, and partial dependent benefits can be given to immediate family members such as children and widow/widower.

SSI is a benefit meant for low-income individuals who have very limited income and assets. SSI can apply to children and adults who are disabled or blind, and senior citizens 65 or older. Disabled people eligible for SSI also qualify for Medicaid and food stamps.

Who funds them?

The way each benefit is financed is also a key difference between the two—while the SSDI is funded by Social Security taxes from workers, employers, and self-employed individuals, SSI is bankrolled by the Treasury Department with general revenues collected to run the U.S. government.

Who is eligible?

Eligibility is another differentiating factor. Since Social Security Disability Insurance is funded through payroll taxes, candidates must have earned a certain number of work credits to be eligible. On the other hand, to see if you qualify for SSI, Social security will delve into your assets, which include your money in the bank, owned property, and various other personal resources. If these exceed a certain amount ($2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple) then the SSI application will be denied.

If you need help qualifying for either of these benefits, talk to a Social Security Disability lawyer.

Source:

What Is the Difference Between Social Security Disability (SSDI) and SSI?, disabilitysecrets.com