There are a few government programs that give money to help older adults and people with disabilities. Two of the most common ones are called SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), and they are run by the Social Security Administration.
Key Highlights
– You have a disability, and – You worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes while working.
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What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
SSI gives basic financial help to older adults and people with disabilities (of any age) who have very little income or savings. The money comes from the federal government, and sometimes states add extra money to it.
What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
SSDI gives money to people with disabilities who have worked enough in the past or have a family member (like a spouse or parent) who has a qualifying work history.
Can you get both SSI and SSDI at the same time?
Yes, if you qualify, you can get both SSDI and SSI benefits at the same time. This is called getting “concurrent” benefits. You can apply for both programs at once, and the Social Security Administration will let you know if you’re approved for one or both.
What’s the difference between SSI and SSDI?
The main difference is how you qualify:
- SSI is for people who are older or have a disability and have very little income or savings.
- SSDI is for people with a disability who have worked and earned enough work credits.
- Also, health coverage is different:
- Most people on SSI automatically get Medicaid.
- People on SSDI get Medicare after 2 years of receiving benefits—unless they have ALS, in which case, they get Medicare right away.
Eligibility for SSI and SSDI
For SSI
You may be eligible for SSI if you are:
- 65 or older,
- Blind, or
- Disabled.
And you also:
- Have little or no income,
- Have limited savings and resources,
- Are a U.S. citizen or national, or a qualifying noncitizen (as defined by the Department of Homeland Security). Note: If you have an active deportation or removal warrant, you usually don’t qualify.,
- Live in one of the 50 states, Washington D.C., or the Northern Mariana Islands,
- Are not away from these areas for a full calendar month or for 30 days in a row or more,
- Are not living in a government-paid institution like a hospital or prison,
- Apply for any other cash benefits you may qualify for (like Social Security or pensions),
- Give the Social Security Administration permission to check your financial records,
- Submit an SSI application, and
- Meet a few other specific rules.
For SSDI
- You’ve worked in jobs where you paid into Social Security.
- You have a health condition that fits Social Security’s rules for being considered a disability.
A 2025 comparison of SSI and SSDI
| Factors | SSI | SSDI |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Payments usually start the first full month after you apply or are approved—whichever is later. | Payments start in the sixth full month after your disability begins. The 6-month waiting period starts the month after Social Security decides your disability began. |
| Maximum monthly payment | $967 for an individual $1,450 for a couple. |
$4,018 |
How to Apply for SSDI?
- Choose “An adult (age 18 and over)”
- Select “Disability”
- Review eligibility requirements
- Submit an application
- Apply online or finish an existing application
- Set up an appointment by calling 1-800-772-1213
- Call TTY 1-800-325-0778 if you’re deaf or hard of hearing
- Wait for Social Security to review your application
- Respond if they request more documents or evaluations
- Check your application status online
- Receive a letter with the decision
How to Apply for SSI?
You need to check if you qualify for SSI before applying or making an appointment. If you’re not sure after reading the rules, call us at 1-800-772-1213 (or TTY 1-800-325-0778 if you’re deaf or hard of hearing).
You can apply for SSI in these ways:
- Go to our Apply Online for Disability Benefits website to start the process. You might be able to apply for SSI there.
- Call us at 1-800-772-1213 (or TTY 1-800-325-0778) to set up an appointment. If you use a relay service, that’s okay too.
- Ask someone you trust to call and make the appointment for you or help with the application.
- Call your local Social Security office to schedule a phone appointment.
- Go to the Start the SSI application process page and let us know you want to apply. We’ll set up an appointment for you.
- You can also apply using electronic signature services like Adobe or DocuSign.
Get help with SSDI and SSI benefits
You can make a free “My Social Security” account online to manage your benefits. With this account, you can:
- Check the status of your application
- Update your name, address, and other details
- Set up or change how you get your payments (like direct deposit)
- Get tax forms for SSDI benefits (SSI benefits are not taxed)
- Get a letter that shows what benefits you receive
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get both SSI and SSDI?
Yes, if you have a low income and few resources and have worked and paid into Social Security, you might be able to get both.
How does Social Security define disability?
To qualify, your condition must:
- Make it hard or impossible for you to work,
- Last at least one year or is expected to result in death, and
- Be backed up by medical records.
- Short-term or partial disabilities don’t qualify.
How long does it take to process my application?
It usually takes 3 to 5 months after you apply, but it can vary.
If you have a serious condition listed under Social Security’s Compassionate Allowances (CAL), your case will be reviewed faster—no extra form needed.
If I’m 62 and disabled, should I apply for SSDI or early retirement?
You can get Social Security retirement benefits at age 62, but the monthly amount will be lower for the rest of your life.
If you qualify for SSDI, the amount you get is the same as your full retirement benefit, so it’s often better to apply for SSDI if you’re disabled.
