What is the difference between Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits?

SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI)

SSI is a cash benefit program for people who are blind, aged over 65), or disabled. To qualify for SSI disability benefits, you must be able to prove you are both disabled and financially qualified. To be financially eligible, you must prove that your income and resources fall below a certain level. If you receive SSI benefits, you are automatically eligible to receive Medicaid health insurance.

Some examples of income are: cash or gifts you receive each month that can be used for food, clothing, or housing.

Some examples of resources are: things you own that can be turned into cash. For example, property and bank accounts are resources.

NOTE: Some types of income and some types of resources do not count against you for SSI purposes.

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY (SSD)

SSD is a cash benefit program for people who are disabled and have "insured status." Generally, to have this "insured status," you must have worked about five of the last ten years, and paid Social Security taxes out of your paychecks into the program. However, different rules apply for younger workers, so check with the Social Security office that is nearest you. SSD is not based on financial need.

If a child's parent has "insured status," and is blind, disabled, or deceased, that child may be eligible for benefits, even if he or she is healthy.

After 24 months of SSD benefits eligibility, you become eligible for Medicare health insurance. If you are not sure whether you meet "insured status," it is best to go ahead and apply for the SSD benefits.

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