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
SSDI is based on your work history. It gives money to you and some of your family if:
– You have a disability, and
– You worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes while working.
SSI doesn’t depend on your work history. It gives money to help pay for basic needs like food, clothes, and a place to live if you’re 65 or older or have a disability.
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.
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).