A disability can make it harder to work, earn an income, and support your family. If you face these challenges, you may look to disability benefits for financial support.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can both help people with disabilities, but they follow different eligibility rules. Knowing the difference can help you understand which program may apply to you.
SSDI depends on your work history
SSDI can provide benefits if your disability prevents you from working, and you have enough work credits. You earn work credits by working and paying Social Security taxes. The number of credits you need depends on your age and work history. You also must meet Social Security’s rules for disability
SSI depends on your income and resources
SSI focuses on your financial situation. To qualify, you generally need to have:
- A functional limitation, blindness or be age 65 or older
- Limited income
- Limited resources, such as money or property
- U.S. citizenship or a qualifying immigration status
Your work history does not determine whether you qualify for SSI.
Michigan has its own disability assistance program
The state also offers State Disability Assistance (SDA), which provides cash assistance to eligible adults with disabilities. For SDA purposes, Michigan may consider you disabled if a physical or mental disability prevents you from working for at least 90 days. The program also has income, asset and residency requirements.
Finding the right disability support for you
Living with a disability can make work and financial security harder, yet choosing to keep working takes courage and determination. If you need financial support, learning the differences between SSDI, SSI and SDA can help you find the program that fits your situation and take the right next step.