Social Security Disability & Supplemental Security Income: A Comparison

The two programs are similar, but they are not the same. While the Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income programs both offer benefits for disabled citizens, their qualifications and criteria differ. Because of the overlap on some of the information, you may be unsure which of these programs you should apply to.

Let’s look at the differences between Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income, and how one qualifies for benefits.

Social Security Disability

Social Security Disability is a benefit that is considered earned by having an established work history. In order to qualify, a person must have a mental or physical impairment preventing them from continuing current work, or performing any other work, and it must be expected to last for at least 12 months or otherwise result in death.

It’s also payable to children, widows, and adults who have been disabled since childhood and were never able to work. The benefits are based on the disabled person’s work record.

Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income does use the same definition of a disabled adult for qualification, but there are key differences. The main difference is Supplemental Security Income is made available for those with very limited assets or income. Adults 65 years of age or older who are low income, but not disabled, also qualify for these benefits.

While Social Security Disability was established to pay disabled workers and dependents, Social Security Income exists to provide support for the elderly or disabled with little income or assets, or a limited work history.

Due to the similarities between the two, it can be tough to know which program you qualify for. Hiring an experienced Social Security lawyer, such as JBA, helps get you through the process as quickly as possible. And, if you hit any bumps along the way, you have professional insight and assistance to help you move forward.

Need guidance with filing for Social Security benefits? Call JBA.

When choosing an attorney to guide you through the process of Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income, it’s important to hire an individual experienced with the program and its requirements. Consulting an individual who has insight on Social Security and the application process will prove to be extremely valuable in the long run, especially when questions arise or uncertainty on how to proceed.

Before trying to work out intricate Social Security qualifications on your own, contact our office to make sure you understand the program and process. Protect yourself, know your rights: call us and Get JBA First!

Jenkins Block & Associates has 40+ years of experience in successful SSD/SSI cases in Maryland & Virginia, in addition to being a member of The National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives. Call us at 1-800-243-2439 or contact us online to begin the process of filing your Social Security benefits!