The Differences Between SSDI and SSI: What You Need to Know Before Applying

Social Security Disability (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are both part of the federal Social Security Administration (SSA). They both offer supplemental income for people with disabilities. However, they’re two different programs that serve different purposes depending on your work history, age, and needs. Let’s take a look at each.

What is SSDI?

SSDI is connected to your work history and your disability. As you or a family member worked, you (or they) earned “work credits” that make you eligible to receive SSDI. The number of work credits earned at the time of applying for SSDI will determine how much monthly income you’re eligible to receive from SSDI, typically equivalent to how much Social Security you would have received at retirement age. You’ll need to prove that you are disabled according to the Social Security Administration’s definition of “disabled” and will have your case reviewed every three to seven years for continuing eligibility purposes.

What is SSI?

Unlike SSDI, SSI eligibility does not depend on work credits and is available to individuals with no or limited income.  Eligibility for SSI requires you to be 65 or older OR to have a disability. Your benefits from SSI typically start sooner than SSDI benefits; however, the amount of money you get is usually lower because you haven’t paid into the Social Security system via employment. Your case will be reviewed every year by SSA to determine the continuation of your eligibility.

SSDI vs SSI: Disability Benefits Comparison

Let’s break down SSDI vs SSI in terms of your potential needs so you understand which one you’re eligible to receive right now:

• Eligibility
  • SSDI: You have a disability AND a work history in which you’ve already paid into the Social Security system. You must also be under 65 years old and meet the SSA’s definition of “disabled.”
  • SSI: You are 65 years or older OR any age with a disability. No work history is required.

• Income

• • SSDI: You must prove you have a limited income and resources, typically less than $2,000 in assets for individuals and $3,000 for couples.

• • SSI: There are no income or other benefit limits, but benefits may be affected by other disability payments such as worker’s comp.

• Average monthly benefit in Massachusetts in 2025:

• • SSDI: $1,580

• • SSI: $696.07

• Maximum monthly benefit in Massachusetts in 2025:

• • SSDI: Up to $4,018, depending on individual work history and earnings

• • SSI: Individuals: $967, Couples: $1,450 

• • • Actual SSI payments may vary based on income, living arrangements, and other factors.

• State supplements in Massachusetts

• • SSDI: MA does not supplement federal aid.

• • SSI: MA provides an additional State Supplement Program (SSP) payment to SSI recipients.

• How are benefits calculated?

• • SSDI: Past earnings.

• • SSI: Financial need.

• Other health care

• • SSDI: You’re eligible for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period from the start of receiving your disability benefits.

• • SSI: You are automatically eligible for Medicaid (MassHealth in Massachusetts).

• When do I start receiving my benefits?

• • SSDI: You can expect to start receiving SSDI benefits after a 5-month waiting period, starting from the onset date of the disability as determined by the SSA.

• • SSI: You can expect to start receiving SSI benefits starting from the first full month after the application date or the date of eligibility, whichever is later.

Can I Receive Both SSDI and SSI?

In some cases, you may qualify for both SSI and SSDI simultaneously. This is known as “concurrent benefits.” Concurrent benefits typically occur if you qualify for SSDI but receive a low monthly benefit due to limited work history, and you ALSO meet the financial criteria for SSI.

Hiring a Social Security Lawyer Can Help

The application process can be complicated and overwhelming. That’s why the lawyers at Lipsey & Clifford are here to help. Contact us today at 1-800-466-3130 or by email for a free consultation. Let us get you the maximum amount of benefits you’re entitled to receive!