Claiming Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits differs slightly from SSDI in which there are no earnings or work credits requirements. This benefit covers adults and children who are disabled and have limited income. To qualify for this program, you must have less than $2,000 ($3000 for a couple) worth of assets or resources, which includes money you may have in your bank accounts or any other possessions of value. If you receive SSI, you are also eligible for Medicaid; however, there are no auxiliary benefits with this program for dependents. As with SSDI, you must meet the medical standards to be eligible for this benefit which is a condition preventing full-time work for at least 12 months.
Please note, if you have previously worked, you could qualify for both SSDI and SSI benefits depending on your work credits, Date Last Insured (DLI), and current financial status. If you apply for SSI, the Social Security Administration office should also have you apply for SSDI, even if you believe you would not qualify. They will inform you if you do not meet the requirements for either program.
