Disability Benefits: SSDI & SSI
If a health condition keeps you from working, Social Security offers two programs that provide monthly income. They sound similar but work differently — here's the plain-English version.
SSDI vs. SSI
SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is based on your work history — you qualify if you've paid into Social Security long enough and can no longer work due to a disability. SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is based on financial need and doesn't require a work history, so it can help people with little or no income.
Who qualifies
In both cases, you must have a medical condition that significantly limits your ability to work and is expected to last at least a year (or is terminal). SSI also has income and resource limits.
Good to know: Many applications are denied at first and approved on appeal, so it's common to need a second step. Applying is free through the Social Security Administration, and a representative only gets paid if you win.
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