There are two distinct programs available in the US for those who are disabled and unable to work; both pay monthly cash benefits.
The main difference between these programs is that SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is available to people that have, over time, accumulated enough work credits to qualify. SSDI benefits are paid by Social Security in Missouri. SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is available to those who have yet to amass enough work credits to qualify for SSDI, or they have never worked.
SSDI and SSI, although both managed by Social Security, are very different.
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)
Those eligible for SSDI are those that have contributed to Social Security through FICA tax and worked long enough to accrue sufficient work credits. The maximum number of work credits that can be earned annually is four. The older you are, the greater the number of work credits is needed to qualify for disability benefits. If the disability lasts for more than two years, in addition to cash benefits, the individual will also be eligible for Medicare.
Only people over the age of 18 can receive SSDI benefits, but this age limit does not apply to the spouse and children of the disabled recipient who is eligible for auxiliary benefits.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
SSI is a “needs based” program, and it is not funded by Social Security in Missouri. Instead, it is funded by general taxes. SSI does not take into account any work history; it is not even a requirement that an applicant has ever worked at all. The program is based on financial need, nothing more. A recipient of SSI benefits must not have more than $2,000 in assets and little in the way of income.
Those that qualify for SSI are eligible for Medicaid and most qualify for food stamps as well.
It can be difficult to be approved for SSDI and SSI; many that claim hire a lawyer that focuses on Social Security in Missouri to improve their chances of approval. For a free evaluation of your case, contact Grundy Disability Group, LLC.
