How does Supplemental Security Income (SSI) eligibility differ from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are two types of disability benefits offered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, their eligibility requirements and benefits differ. SSI benefits are available to individuals who are disabled, blind, or over 65 and have limited income and resources. To qualify for SSI, applicants must meet the SSA’s eligibility criteria, which includes a total income limit of no more than $2,000 in countable assets per individual and no more than $3,000 for a married couple. In addition, applicants must have a medical disability that is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. SSI benefits provide monthly cash payments to those eligible and may also include Medicaid coverage. On the other hand, SSDI benefits are available to individuals who have worked long enough to earn sufficient credits and have a medical disability that prevents them from working and is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. SSDI benefits are based on an individual’s past earnings. Thus, those with more years of employment and higher wages will receive greater benefits. In addition, SSDI recipients may also qualify for Medicare after 24 months of receiving the benefit. Overall, SSI and SSDI are two distinct Social Security disability benefits offered to those with qualifying disabilities in California. The main differences between them are the eligibility criteria, the amount of benefits provided, and benefits such as Medicaid and Medicare.

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