What Is The Difference Between SSDI And SSI Benefits?

The Social Security Administration oversees two different types of disability benefits known as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The two are often mixed up, but they provide different benefits to people with disabilities. In this video, Tulsa disability lawyer Steve Troutman explores the differences between the two programs, including how they are funded, distributed, and typical payment amounts.

Applying for disability benefits is a complicated process. Many are unsure whether they qualify for SSDI or SSI and which benefits program is best for their situation. Talk about your financial needs and learn how our disability attorneys may be able to help by scheduling a free evaluation with our firm today.

Video Transcription

SSDI, or what Social Security now calls DIB, is based on what we paid into the Social Security system. Every time you’re given a paycheck and the government takes FICA out of your paycheck, a portion of that goes into a retirement fund, a portion of that goes into a disability fund. The disability fund is what SSDI, or DIB, is all about. How much you get depends on what you paid into the Social Security system, the amount you would get per month. Most people in the past have been given statements every year or two saying how much they would get at retirement, how much they would get if they’re found disabled, that’s what some people call SSDI, or Social Security currently calls DIB. SSI is part of the welfare system, it’s not based on what people have paid in the Social Security system and is generally applicable to people who have not paid anything into the Social Security system or have not paid enough into the Social Security system. If you haven’t paid enough into the Social Security system to be eligible for SSDI, then SSI is the only thing that you can get. In most cases, not every case but in most cases, SSI is less money and there are other differences in the benefits. To have a free evaluation of your disability claim, call us at (918) 587-0050 or visit us at TroutmanLaw.com.