Social Security runs two different disability programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Their names sound alike, and both use the same medical rules. But who can get them, and how they are paid for, are very different. Knowing which one fits you can make help applying for disability much less confusing.
The Short Answer
- SSDI is based on your work history. You earn it by working and paying Social Security taxes.
- SSI is based on financial need. It is for people with very limited income and resources, whether or not they have worked.
Some people may qualify for both at the same time.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| SSDI | SSI | |
|---|---|---|
| Paid for by | Social Security taxes on wages (trust funds) | General tax revenues, not Social Security taxes |
| Who can get it | Workers who earned enough work credits, and some family members | Adults and children who are disabled or blind, and adults 65 or older, with limited income and resources |
| Work history needed? | Yes | No |
| Limits on savings? | No limit on savings or assets | Yes. Resource limits are generally $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple |
| Waiting period | Generally no benefits for the first 5 full months of disability | No 5-month waiting period |
| Health coverage | Medicare, generally after 24 months of SSDI entitlement | In most states, SSI recipients can get Medicaid |
How SSDI Works
SSDI is like insurance you pay into while you work. Each year you work and pay Social Security taxes, you earn "work credits." To get SSDI, you need enough credits, and some of them must be recent.
In general, SSA says you need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the 10 years ending with the year you became disabled. Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits. Your monthly SSDI amount is based on your past earnings, not on your current income or savings.
Certain family members, such as some children or a spouse, may also be able to get benefits based on your record.
How SSI Works
SSI is a needs-based program. It looks at your income, the things you own, and your living situation. Income can include wages, other benefits, and even help with food or shelter from others. Some things, like the home you live in and usually one car, generally do not count toward the resource limit.
Because SSI is about need, the monthly amount can change when your income or living situation changes. Some states add extra money to the federal SSI payment.
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What Both Programs Have in Common
For adults, SSDI and SSI use the same definition of disability. In general, you must be unable to do substantial work because of a medical condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months or to result in death. SSA looks at your medical records, your age, education, past work, and what you can still do.
Both programs also use the same appeal process. If you are denied, you generally have 60 days to appeal. Learn more in our guide on how to appeal an SSDI denial.
Can You Get Both SSDI and SSI?
Yes, in some cases. If your SSDI payment is low and you have very limited income and resources, you may also be eligible for SSI. This is sometimes called getting "concurrent" benefits. SSA will look at your full situation to decide.
Which One Should You Apply For?
When you apply for disability, SSA can look at whether you may be eligible for SSDI, SSI, or both. You do not always need to know the answer before you start. Here is a simple way to think about it:
- If you worked for many years and paid Social Security taxes, SSDI is likely the main program to look at.
- If you have worked little or not at all, and you have very little income and savings, SSI may be the better fit.
- If you worked some but have low income now, it may be worth asking about both.
How a Representative Can Help
A disability representative can help you sort out which program applies, gather medical proof, and meet deadlines. If you have already been denied, they can help with your appeal. Representative fees are regulated by federal law and must be approved by SSA, and your representative will explain their fee agreement before you sign anything.
Common Mix-Ups to Avoid
- "I have savings, so I can't get disability." Savings matter for SSI, but SSDI has no asset limit.
- "I never worked, so I can't get anything." SSDI needs work credits, but SSI does not.
- "I was denied for one, so I'm denied for both." Read your letter. It will say which program the decision is about, and each decision can be appealed.
Back to SSDI denied help.
Sources
- SSA: Disability Benefits — How Does Someone Become Eligible?
- SSA: Understanding SSI — Resources
- SSA: How You Earn Credits
- SSA: Disability Benefits (publication 05-10029)
- SSA: Medicare entitlement for disability beneficiaries
- SSA: SSI and Medicaid
Facts on this page come from the Social Security Administration and were checked in October 2026. Rules can change. Check ssa.gov or ask a representative about your own case.
Questions People Ask
What is the main difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you paid. SSI is based on financial need and has strict income and resource limits. Both use the same medical definition of disability for adults.
Can I get SSI if I never worked?
Possibly. SSI does not require a work history. It is for people who are disabled, blind, or 65 or older and have limited income and resources.
Do SSDI and SSI come with health insurance?
SSDI generally leads to Medicare after 24 months of entitlement. In most states, people who get SSI can also get Medicaid.
Can I apply for both at once?
Yes. When you apply, SSA can review whether you may be eligible for SSDI, SSI, or both.
Talk to Someone About Your Case
A free case review can help you see your options. No upfront cost. Most representatives are only paid if you win.
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